Pulmonology at TidalHealth Seaford

SEAFORD, Del. – In this week’s Health Beat, brought to you by TidalHealth, WMDT spoke with Dr. Nourhan Kika, a new pulmonologist at TidalHealth Seaford.

The pulmonology department covers a wide array of pulmonary diseases — from common diseases like COPD and asthma, to more advanced conditions like interstitial lung disease, sarcoidosis, and pulmonary hypertension.

“Shortness of breath is one of the biggest things. A lot of people just feel like they’re feeling short of breath. It’s just because you’re deconditioned, but a lot of times it’s something else that’s going on that we can help,” Dr. Kika elaborated. “Cough is another big one. Chest pain [also], a lot of people think chest pain is just cardiac related, but a lot of times there is overlap with pulmonary symptoms as well.”

The department also has a specific clinic that works to treat lung nodules. Providers use CAT scans to capture nodules in patients early. They are also equipped to perform biopsies, which help in catching lung cancer early.

Dr. Kika also issued a warning to young people and smokers about their lung health.

“A lot of people think that when you’re young, you’re invincible. And, you know, especially when it comes to smoking and vaping, a lot of people feel like if they do it at a young age, [then] that’s fine. But, everyone’s lung function starts to decline in their twenties and thirties, and smoking very rapidly accelerates that decline.”

She tells us that the best way to protect your lung health is to start monitoring symptoms and talking with your providers.

“If it’s anything pulmonary related, we’re more than happy to see you and, try to get you the best answer possible,” Dr. Kika said.

If you’d like to see a pulmonary care provider, you can call 302-990-3300 or schedule an appointment here.