How to Consult a Respiratory Therapist
Chances are if you've had a breathing problem in the past, you may have been seen and treated by a respiratory therapist. They work with doctors in hospitals, clinics and home health agencies to create and manage patients suffering from respiratory disorders. Therefore, if you have a disease affecting breathing, you probably want to talk to your primary physician about seeing a respiratory therapist.
- Make the appointment.
Have your doctor's office make a referral appointment to see their respiratory therapist. By setting up the appointment through your primary physician's office you are guaranteeing continuity of care for your condition. This will allow in-depth care in the event your respiratory symptoms are secondary to another illness. - Keep your appointment
Visit your respiratory therapist for an evaluation. Depending on where your physician practices, the appointment may be at the local doctor's office, or it may be at the hospital in an out patient suite. - Complete Diagnostic tests
Follow the respiratory therapist's advice and complete the required breathing tests. This will give your therapist a baseline of your breathing function.
Depending on the results, an arterial blood gas test may also be performed to establish oxygen levels as well as acid and alkalinity levels in the arterial blood supply.
Your respiratory therapist may perform a stress test to measure how well your lungs function under certain conditions. After the tests are completed, your therapist will consult with your primary care physician to establish a treatment plan. - Follow your Treatment Plan
It is important you follow your treatment for the best prognosis for recovery from your illness. Depending on the cause of your respiratory symptoms, oxygen therapy, drug treatment, mechanical ventilation or daily lung exercises may be recommended.