Pulmonology (Pulmonary Medicine)

Diagnosing and treating lung disease and respiratory disorders in San Diego

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Diagnosing and treating lung disease and respiratory disorders in San Diego

Many people don’t pay much attention to their breathing — until it becomes difficult. Asthma, lung disease, COPD, respiratory infections and other pulmonary diseases can affect your ability to breathe normally and make even the simplest daily activities challenging. When that happens, you need expert pulmonary medicine. 


Scripps pulmonologists in San Diego are experts in diagnosing, treating and helping prevent respiratory problems. It is because of this exceptional care that Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla and Scripps Green Hospital are recognized as one of San Diego’s best hospitals for pulmonology by U.S. News & World Report


As a Scripps patient, you have access to the latest treatment options for routine and complex pulmonary disorders, including new medications, advanced surgical techniques and interventional pulmonology services. In addition, our pulmonologists work closely with specialists in sleep medicine, intensive care and other specialties to provide comprehensive care and support.

About lung disease and respiratory disorders

Respiratory disorders include a range of conditions that affect the lungs and respiratory system. They can cause mild to severe breathing problems.

Respiratory disease symptoms and diagnosis

Scripps lung specialists are experts in diagnosing respiratory disorders to determine the best course of treatment. Learn more about respiratory disease symptoms, imaging and diagnostic testing.

Treatment and clinic trials

Scripps pulmonology specialists treat respiratory diseases with the most advanced therapies and procedures. Our goal is to treat your respiratory disorder and help restore your ability to breathe comfortably. Your care team will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to the type and severity of your respiratory condition, your age and your overall health.

Pulmonary rehabilitation, support and resources

Scripps pulmonary rehabilitation programs offer a combination of therapies, such as education, exercise and coaching, to help you manage your breathing problem. You may have pulmonary rehabilitation along with other treatments. The treatments may include yoga, tai chi, music therapy, meditation, massage, healing touch and reflexology. For more information call 858-626-6493.


Scripps also hosts free monthly support groups:


Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Support Group

This support group is for patients with ILD to discuss and share progressive new information about the disease and promote an exceptional quality of life. The group meets every second Friday from 12:30 - 2 pm at Scripps Clinic Anderson Medical Pavilion, 6th floor, division of pulmonary medicine. For more information call 858-824-5404.


The Better Breathers Club

We welcome patients and caregivers affected by chronic lung diseases, including COPD, pulmonary fibrosis and lung cancer. The group meets every first Thursday from 11:30 am - 12:30 pm at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla. For more information, call 619-392-9878.