The 20 Best Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Doctors Near Me in Gig Harbor, WA

Find the Top Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Experts and Specialists

Last Updated: 04/28/2026

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MediFind found 165 doctor with experience in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) near Gig Harbor, WA. Of these, 145 are Experienced, 14 are Advanced and 3 are Distinguished.

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165 providers found
    Distinguished in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Pulmonary Medicine | Intensive Care Medicine
    Distinguished in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Pulmonary Medicine | Intensive Care Medicine

    Franciscan Pulmonary Associates At St. Joseph

    1708 S Yakima Ave, Suite 300, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (8.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Nithya Menon, MD, is a board-certified pulmonary and critical care medicine physician specializing in COPD, asthma, lung cancer and interstitial lung disease. Dr. Menon strives to educate and empower her patients, giving them the tools they need to improve their quality of life. She considers it a privilege to care for patients and hopes to impact their lives positively.Dr. Menon is a member of the American Thoracic Society and American College of Physicians. Prior to joining Franciscan Pulmonary Associates, Dr. Menon served as medical director for pulmonary and critical care at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital.Away from work, Dr. Menon finds it incredibly recharging to spend time with her kids outdoors in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, hiking, biking, skiing and traveling. Dr. Menon is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). She is also highly rated in 13 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Lung Metastases, Emphysema, Lung Nodules, and Gastrostomy. Dr. Menon is board certified in Pulmonary Disease And Critical Care Medicine, American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Menon is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Internal Medicine

    Franciscan Medical Clinic At St. Anthony

    11511 Canterwood Blvd NW, Suite 320, 
    Gig Harbor, WA 
     (2.8 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Francisco Beltran, MD, is a board-certified internist who offers patient-centered primary care for adults 65 years and older. His goal is to establish a trusting relationship with his patients and empower them to make informed health care decisions.Away from work, he enjoys travel, cooking, hiking and spending time with his family. Dr. Beltran is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). He is also highly rated in 1 other condition, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses High Cholesterol, Familial Hypertension, Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism, Endoscopy, and Gastrostomy. Dr. Beltran is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Beltran is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Internal Medicine

    Franciscan Medical Clinic - Gig Harbor

    6401 Kimball Drive, Suite 201, 
    Gig Harbor, WA 
     (3.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Michael Wukelic, MD, is an experienced, board-certified internal medicine physician who offers primary care for adults. Dr. Wukelic assists patients to manage a variety of chronic diseases, and works with other health care providers to provide comprehensive, quality care. He finds joy in helping others and treats his patients as he would treat his family or a close friend.Away from work, Dr. Wukelic enjoys bicycling, hiking, wine tasting, sporting events and spending time with family. Dr. Wukelic is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). His clinical expertise encompasses Stroke, Sepsis, Alcoholic Neuropathy, Transmyocardial Revascularization, and Stent Placement. Dr. Wukelic is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Wukelic is currently accepting new patients.

    Learn about our expert tiers
    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Internal Medicine
    1608 S J St Fl, Suite 3, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (7.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Japanese, Mandarin, Polish, Spanish
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    John Smoots is a primary care provider, practicing in Internal Medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Smoots is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). He is also highly rated in 36 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Scoliosis, Urinary Tract Infection in Children, Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), and Osteoporosis. Dr. Smoots is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Pulmonary Medicine | Intensive Care Medicine
    Advanced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Pulmonary Medicine | Intensive Care Medicine

    Franciscan Pulmonary Associates At St. Joseph

    1708 S Yakima Ave, Suite 300, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (8.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Jeffrey Albores, MD, is a board-certified internal medicine physician with additional certifications in pulmonary and critical care medicine. Dr. Albores strives to treat each patient with compassion and respect, and to provide the information they need to make informed decisions about their care. He approaches each patient as a unique individual who deserves tailored care guided by evidence-based medicine and a shared decision-making process. He performs diagnostic bronchoscopy and sees critically ill patients in the ICU.Dr. Albores is a member of the American College of Chest Physicians.Away from work, Dr. Albores enjoys long distance running, hiking, traveling and trying new restaurants.Conditions and procedures:AsthmaBronchoscopyCOPDInterstitial lung diseaseLung cancerPulmonary hypertensionPulmonary infectionPulmonary vascular disease. Dr. Albores is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). He is also highly rated in 13 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Lung Metastases, Interstitial Lung Disease, Acute Interstitial Pneumonia, Advanced Bronchoscopy, and Gastrostomy. Dr. Albores is board certified in Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Disease And Critical Care Medicine, American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Albores is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Pulmonary Medicine | Sleep Medicine
    Advanced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Pulmonary Medicine | Sleep Medicine

    Franciscan Pulmonary Associates At St. Joseph

    1708 S Yakima Ave, Suite 300, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (8.5 miles away)
    Experience:
    17+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Mudassar Ahmad, MD, is a board-certified pulmonologist specializing in pulmonary and sleep medicine. Dr. Ahmad’s approach to care is compassionate, respectful, and focused on patient education and prioritizing patient needs. He considers each patient an integral and primary member of the treatment team, keeping them involved in decision-making. He provides thorough evaluations, discusses all available treatment options and helps guide patients to make the best decisions based on their goals.Away from work, Dr. Ahmad enjoys spending time with his family, hiking, and exploring state and national parks.Conditions and Procedures:AsthmaBronchoscopyCOPDEndobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspirationInsomniaInterstitial lung diseaseLung nodule evaluationLung cancer diagnosticsNarcolepsy/idiopathic hypersomniaSleep apnea. Dr. Ahmad is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). He is also highly rated in 2 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Lung Metastases, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Acute Interstitial Pneumonia, and Pneumonia. Dr. Ahmad is board certified in Pulmonary Medicine, American Board Of Internal Medicine and Internal Medicine, American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Ahmad is currently accepting new patients.

    Distinguished in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Pulmonary Medicine | Intensive Care Medicine
    Distinguished in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Pulmonary Medicine | Intensive Care Medicine

    Franciscan Pulmonary Associates At St. Anne

    16259 Sylvester Road SW, Suite 301, 
    Burien, WA 
     (13.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Filipino
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Frederick Troncales, MD, is a board-certified pulmonologist who offers compassionate, high quality care to adults with complex respiratory diseases and those who are critically ill. Dr. Troncales listens to his patient's concerns and works to manage their illness alongside other members of their care team in both outpatient and hospital settings.Dr. Troncales takes pride in being a hands-on physician and takes the time to communicate with patients, their relatives and medical staff. He is a member of the American Medical Association and American College of Chest Physicians. Dr. Troncales is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). He is also highly rated in 17 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Lung Metastases, Lung Nodules, Cerebral Hypoxia, and Gastrostomy. Dr. Troncales is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, Subspecialty In Pulmonary Disease Medicine and American Board Of Internal Medicine, Subspecialty In Critical Care Medicine. Dr. Troncales is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Family Medicine

    Franciscan Medical Clinic At St. Anthony

    11511 Canterwood Blvd NW, Suite 320, 
    Gig Harbor, WA 
     (2.8 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Vanson Libre, MD, is a board-certified family medicine physician who cares for patients of all ages, children to seniors. Dr. Libre's priorities are to deliver excellent health care through evidence-based medicine and to advocate preventive medicine. He enjoys caring for families across the generations through a partnership of trust and camaraderie.Dr. Libre is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and American Medical Association. Dr. Libre is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). He is also highly rated in 9 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses High Cholesterol, Familial Hypertension, Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism, and Hypertension. Dr. Libre is board certified in American Board Of Family Medicine.

    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Internal Medicine

    Franciscan Medical Clinic On Pt. Fosdick

    4700 Pt. Fosdick Drive NW, Suite 202 & 203, 
    Gig Harbor, WA 
     (3.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Filipino
    Offers Telehealth

    Jay Casiño, Jr., MD, provides comprehensive care for adults. He is committed to educating his patients about their health and empowering them to make well-informed decisions about their own care. His medical interests include the treatment of diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, anemia and problems related to high cholesterol. Dr. Casino is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). He is also highly rated in 7 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), Cirrhosis, Familial Combined Hyperlipidemia, and Xanthoma. Dr. Casino is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Family Medicine

    Franciscan Medical Clinic On Pt. Fosdick

    4700 Pt. Fosdick Drive NW, Suite 202 & 203, 
    Gig Harbor, WA 
     (3.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Filipino
    Offers Telehealth

    Alma Glamzi, MD, provides comprehensive primary care for the whole family. Dr. Glamzi seeks to build lasting relationships with her patients through open communication. She stresses prevention, along with patient education and involvement, as vital to ensuring good health. Helping each patient achieve and maintain a healthy mind, body and spirit is her goal. Dr. Glamzi is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). She is also highly rated in 13 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Obesity, Obesity in Children, High Cholesterol, and Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). Dr. Glamzi is board certified in American Board Of Family Medicine.

    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Family Medicine

    Franciscan Medical Clinic On Pt. Fosdick

    4700 Pt. Fosdick Drive NW, Suite 202 & 203, 
    Gig Harbor, WA 
     (3.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Filipino
    Offers Telehealth

    Rachelle Guinto, MD, provides complete family medical care for all ages, with special interest in women's health and geriatric care. Dr. Guinto believes in the value of listening to her patients and building relationships with them to provide the best care possible. Dr. Guinto is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). She is also highly rated in 17 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Breast Cancer, Scoliosis, Sciatica, and Cirrhosis. Dr. Guinto is board certified in American Board Of Family Medicine.

    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Family Medicine

    Franciscan Urgent Care - Gig Harbor

    4700 Point Fosdick Drive NW, Suite 102, 
    Gig Harbor, WA 
     (3.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Jason Kittredge is a primary care provider, practicing in Family Medicine in Gig Harbor, Washington. Dr. Kittredge is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). He is also highly rated in 19 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Bronchitis, Familial Chronic Mucocutaneous Candidiasis, Kikuchi Disease, and Lymphadenitis. Dr. Kittredge is board certified in Family Medicine.

    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Family Medicine

    Franciscan Medical Clinic - Gig Harbor

    6401 Kimball Drive, Suite 201, 
    Gig Harbor, WA 
     (3.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Andrew Ma, DO, is a family medicine physician who offers comprehensive, evidence-based primary care. Dr. Ma enjoys working with individuals in all stages of life, helping them to identify and meet their health goals.Dr. Ma is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians.Away from work, he enjoys snow sports, hiking, camping and photography. Dr. Ma is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). He is also highly rated in 13 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Opisthotonos, Muscle Spasms, and Obesity.

    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Family Medicine

    Franciscan Medical Clinic On Pearl

    5741 N 26th Street, Suite 115, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (4.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Geoffrey McNicoll, MD, provides personalized, compassionate care for the whole family - from well-child exams, to sports physicals for teens, to adult preventive care. He has a special interest in pediatric and adolescent medicine, childhood obesity, diabetes, autoimmune disorders and preventive care.For Dr. McNicoll, open communication, thorough information, and patient involvement in the decision-making process are the hallmarks of quality care.Dr. McNicoll is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Medical Association. Dr. Mcnicoll is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). He is also highly rated in 7 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses High Cholesterol, Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young, Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), and Sciatica. Dr. Mcnicoll is board certified in American Board Of Family Medicine.

    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

    Franciscan Medical Clinic On Pearl

    5741 N 26th Street, Suite 115, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (4.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Anastasia Fyntrilakis, MD, is a board certified family practitioner specializing in general medicine, women's health and pediatrics. She believes in treating the whole person, and that a vital role of the physician is in educating patients so that they can make informed decisions about their own care.Dr. Fyntrilakis enjoys cooking, the outdoors and spending time with her family. Dr. Fyntrilakis is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). She is also highly rated in 2 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Familial Chronic Mucocutaneous Candidiasis, Macroamylasemia, Vertigo, and Tracheitis. Dr. Fyntrilakis is board certified in American Board Of Family Medicine.

    Advanced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Pulmonary Medicine
    Advanced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Pulmonary Medicine

    Multicare Pulmonary Specialists-Tacoma

    316 Martin Luther King Jr Way Ste 401, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (7.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    John Rowlands is a Pulmonary Medicine provider practicing medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Rowlands is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). He is also highly rated in 4 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Lung Metastases, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and Emphysema.

    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Internal Medicine

    Franciscan Medical Clinic At St. Joseph

    1608 S J Street, 2nd & 3rd Floor, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (7.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Filipino
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Christine Macatuno, MD, provides high quality, compassionate care to adults, with special medical interest in geriatrics and experience in treating patients with complex medical conditions.Dr. Macatuno emphasizes preventive care and encourages open communication, cooperation and respect. While she serves as a strong advocate for her patients, she also believes each patient plays a starring role in their own well-being. Dr. Macatuno is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). She is also highly rated in 10 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Sciatica, Familial Hypertension, Hypertension, and Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism. Dr. Macatuno is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Macatuno is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Intensive Care Medicine
    Advanced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Intensive Care Medicine

    Franciscan Critical Care

    2420 S State St, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (8.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Pawan Chawla is an Intensive Care Medicine provider practicing medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Chawla is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). He is also highly rated in 9 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Lung Metastases, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Emphysema, and Gastrostomy.

    Advanced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Intensive Care Medicine
    Advanced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Intensive Care Medicine

    Franciscan Critical Care

    2420 S State St, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (8.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Navdeep Rai is an Intensive Care Medicine provider practicing medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Rai is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). He is also highly rated in 6 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Lung Nodules, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Lung Metastases, Pneumonia, and Gastrostomy.

    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Pulmonary Medicine | Sleep Medicine
    Experienced in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
    Pulmonary Medicine | Sleep Medicine

    Franciscan Pulmonary Associates At St. Joseph

    1708 S Yakima Ave, Suite 300, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (8.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Rajesh Kandasamy is a Sleep Medicine provider practicing medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Kandasamy is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). He is also highly rated in 11 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Emphysema, Bullae, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Gastrostomy, and Advanced Bronchoscopy. Dr. Kandasamy is board certified in Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care Medicine, Sleep Medicine, and Internal Medicine. Dr. Kandasamy is currently accepting new patients.

    Showing 1-20 of 165

    Last Updated: 04/28/2026

    What is the definition of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)?

    Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common lung disease. Having COPD makes it hard to breathe.

    There are two main forms of COPD:

    • Chronic bronchitis, which involves a long-term cough with mucus
    • Emphysema, which involves damage to the lungs over time

    Most people with COPD have a combination of both conditions.

    Which doctors treat COPD?   

    Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is usually treated by a pulmonologist, a doctor who specializes in lung diseases. They help manage breathing issues and other symptoms. A primary care doctor also plays a role, especially in monitoring the condition and making sure medications are working. Other specialists may be involved, like respiratory therapists who teach breathing exercises, and sometimes a cardiologist because COPD can strain the heart. If the disease affects daily activities, physical therapists may help with exercise routines to improve strength and breathing. 

    What are the symptoms of COPD? 

    The main symptoms of COPD include: 

    • Shortness of breath 
    • Persistent cough that produces mucus  
    • Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing) 
    • Frequent respiratory infections, like colds or bronchitis 
    • Chest tightness or discomfort 
    • Feeling very tired 
    • Trouble doing everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs 

    How is COPD diagnosed? 

    COPD is diagnosed with a test called spirometry. This test measures how much air a person can breathe in and out, and how quickly the air is exhaled. If the lungs are not moving air properly, it may indicate COPD. Doctors may also use chest X-rays or CT scans to check for lung damage. Blood tests can be used to measure oxygen levels or rule out other conditions, such as asthma or infections. Early diagnosis is important to begin treatment and help slow the progression of the disease. 

    How is COPD treated?  

    There is no cure for COPD, but treatments and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The most important thing is quitting smoking since smoking causes most cases of COPD and quitting can help slow down the disease. People with COPD usually use inhalers or bronchodilators to help open the airways and make breathing easier. For severe COPD, oxygen therapy may be needed if oxygen levels are low. Pulmonary rehabilitation, which includes exercises and breathing techniques to make the lungs stronger, can also help. 

    What is the life expectancy for someone with COPD? 

    Life expectancy for someone with COPD depends on how advanced the disease is. People with mild COPD can live many years if they stop smoking and follow their treatment plan. In more advanced cases, life expectancy may be shorter, but early diagnosis, regular care, and lifestyle changes can still make a big difference. Using oxygen, staying active, and managing symptoms well can help people with severe COPD live longer, healthier lives. 

    When should I see a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor near Gig Harbor, WA?

    There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as: 

    • Your primary care provider recommends it. 
    • Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care. 
    • Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment. 
    • You need specialized testing or procedures. 
    • You want a second opinion.  

    What should I consider when choosing a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor near Gig Harbor, WA?

    It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.  

    How does MediFind rank Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctors near Gig Harbor, WA?

    MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database. 

    What types of insurance are accepted by Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctors near Gig Harbor, WA?

    Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network. 

    How can I book an appointment online with a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor near Gig Harbor, WA?

    MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor search results page. 

    Why is it important to get a second opinion from a different Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor?

    Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.   

    How can I prepare for my appointment with a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor near Gig Harbor, WA?

    Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items: 

    • Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year) 
    • Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see 
    • Family history of disease 
    • List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses 
    • Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.  
    • List of questions and concerns 
    • Your insurance card 

    You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit. 

    What questions should I ask my Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor?

    Here are some sample questions: 

    • Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated? 
    • What symptoms or side effects should I watch for? 
    • What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results? 
    • Are there other specialists I need to see? 
    • What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions? 

    How can I learn about the latest clinical trials and research advances my Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor may know about?

    MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you. 

    MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand. 

    Can I filter my search to show male or female Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctors near Gig Harbor, WA?

    Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers. 

    Can I filter my search to find a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor that offers video calls?

    Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls). 

    Reviewed on: 11/11/24  

    By: MediFind Medical Staff 

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