Pulmonary care

COPD and pulmonary care in Ocala.

Ongoing management for COPD, asthma and chronic lung conditions, with the goal of fewer flare-ups and fewer hospital visits.

What we manage

With chronic lung conditions the aim is steady breathing day to day and catching a flare-up early, before it becomes a hospital stay. That takes regular follow-up rather than only being seen when things get bad.

COPD monitoring and long-term management
Asthma assessment and treatment
Inhaler technique review, which is wrong more often than people realise
Medication management and adjustment
Flare-up prevention and an action plan
Flu and pneumonia vaccination guidance
Referral to pulmonology when needed

Signs of a flare-up

Call us early rather than waiting it out. If you are severely short of breath, cannot speak in full sentences, or your lips look blue, call 911.

Breathing care for Ocala patients

Florida heat, humidity and pollen all affect people with chronic lung conditions, and summer can be as difficult here as winter is elsewhere. Being seen locally, quickly, when a flare-up starts is what keeps it from turning into a hospital admission.

We care for patients across Ocala, Silver Springs Shores, Belleview, Summerfield and Ocklawaha, from our clinic on SE 5th Street at Peppertree.

COPD and pulmonary questions

How often should COPD be reviewed?

Most patients are seen every three to six months when stable, and sooner after a flare-up or a medication change. If you are having flare-ups more often, that is a signal your plan needs adjusting.

Can you check whether I am using my inhaler correctly?

Yes, and it is worth doing. Inhaler technique is commonly wrong, which means people get less medication than they think. Bring your inhalers to your appointment and we will go through them.

Do you treat asthma as well as COPD?

Yes. We manage asthma in children age 3 and up and in adults, including medication management and trigger identification.

Do I need a pulmonologist?

Many patients are managed well in primary care. If your condition is severe, difficult to control, or the diagnosis is unclear, we will refer you to pulmonology and coordinate with them.

What should I do when a flare-up starts?

Call us as soon as you notice the change rather than waiting to see if it settles. Early treatment often prevents a hospital visit. If you are severely short of breath, call 911.

Can you help me stop smoking?

Yes. Stopping smoking is the single most effective thing for COPD, and we will discuss the options with you without judgement about previous attempts.

Struggling with your breathing?

Call the clinic and we will get you assessed, rather than having you wait to see whether it settles.