A family practice physician or pediatrician may provide a more general perspective.
A pulmonologist, as a lung specialist, can also be a good option.
And if your asthma is connected to allergies, an allergist could be a good choice, too.
Verywell / Zoe Hansen
Verywell / Zoe Hansen
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Most asthma can be managed by a family physician or other primary care physician such as an internist.
Many family practice physicians also treat pediatric patients.
Pediatricians can conduct preliminary tests, make a diagnosis, and recommend treatment options.
They can also refer children to more specialized healthcare providers.
They have more specialized training in working with the lungs and respiratory system.
A pulmonologist is either an adult or pediatric lung doctor.
ENTs can help with conditions like rhinitis, sinusitis, and nasal and airway obstruction.
They may be able to help identify asthma triggers and treat related conditions.
For example, if your asthma stems from allergies, an allergist may be a good option.
They do have special training in the lungs and respiratory system, though.
Their main goals are to assess, diagnose, and treat patients who have trouble breathing.
Where to Find Asthma Doctors
You may not always find one practitioner who will treat your asthma.
This is one of theadvantages of having a primary care physician.
A primary care physician is like the quarterback of your healthcare team.
Your Insurance Plan
Your health insurance will cover both primary care practitioners and asthma specialists.
Your plan may allow self-referral to a specialist or it might require a referral from your PCP.
Pulmonologists provide in-depth testing and focus on respiratory illnesses, allergists manage allergen-related asthma.
Many people combine these types of providers for comprehensive asthma care.
Key factors to consider include insurance, location, and other health conditions.
Personal recommendations, online medical directories, and referrals from your primary care doctor can also help.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.Asthma.
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.Asthma Diagnosis.
Schatz M, Zeiger RS, Mosen D et.
al.Improved asthma outcomes from allergy specialist care: A population-based cross-sectional analysis.
J Allergy Clin Immunol.
2005;116(6):1307-13. doi:10.1016/j.jaci.2005.09.027
