A pulmonologist treats and diagnoses respiratory disorders. Pulmonologists must understand asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, sleep apnea, and other respiratory conditions involving the lungs, chest, nose, and throat. As a pulmonologist, you may be required to prescribe medicine or examine a patient using a CT scan or breathing exercise. In this career, you are expected to advise patients on how to reduce the risk of getting a respiratory disease. A central part of your job is to promote pulmonary health. Other duties include practicing active listening and solving complex problems.