Top Pediatric Pulmonologists in Nairobi, Kenya
Finding the right pediatric pulmonologist for your child is crucial when dealing with respiratory conditions. Nairobi, Kenya's capital, is home to several qualified specialists who focus on children's lung and respiratory health. This guide highlights leading pediatric pulmonologists and respiratory specialists in the city.
What is Pediatric Pulmonology?
Pediatric pulmonology is a medical subspecialty that focuses on diagnosing and treating respiratory conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. These specialists handle conditions such as asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, and other lung-related disorders specific to children.
Leading Pediatric Pulmonologists in Nairobi
1. Dr. Elizabeth Kiragu
Specialty: Pediatrics & Child Health/Pediatric Allergy/Pediatric Pulmonology
Location: Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi
About: Dr. Kiragu is a renowned consultant pediatrician specializing in pediatric pulmonology. She works at one of Nairobi's leading medical institutions and has extensive experience in treating children's respiratory conditions.
2. Dr. Lucy Gachare
Specialty: Pediatrician & Pediatric Pulmonologist
Experience: 25+ years
Location: Nairobi
About: Dr. Gachare specializes in child respiratory health with over 25 years of experience. She focuses on comprehensive care for pediatric respiratory conditions.
3. Pediatric Pulmonology Team at Aga Khan University Hospital
Location: Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi
Services: Comprehensive pediatric respiratory care
Contact: Main hospital line for appointments
About: The hospital has a dedicated pediatric pulmonology section that provides specialized care for children with respiratory conditions.
4. Gertrude's Children's Hospital - Pulmonology Clinic
Specialty: Pediatric Chest Conditions
Location: Gertrude's Children's Hospital, Nairobi
Services: Comprehensive pediatric pulmonology clinic
About: This specialized children's hospital offers dedicated pulmonology services focusing exclusively on pediatric patients.
5. Nairobi Hospital - Anderson Specialty Clinics
Location: The Nairobi Hospital
Services: Specialized pediatric respiratory care
About: Part of a comprehensive specialty clinic system offering pediatric pulmonology services.
6. Kenyatta National Hospital - Pediatric Department
Location: Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi
Contact: 0705 026 558
About: As Kenya's largest referral hospital, KNH has pediatric specialists who handle complex respiratory cases in children.
7. Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital - Pediatric Services
Location: Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, Nairobi
About: Offers pediatric respiratory services as part of their comprehensive children's healthcare program.
Major Hospitals with Pediatric Pulmonology Services
Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi
- Comprehensive pediatric pulmonology department
- Advanced diagnostic facilities
- Multidisciplinary approach to care
Gertrude's Children's Hospital
- Contact: Available through hospital reception
- Specialized exclusively in pediatric care
- Dedicated pulmonology clinic for chest conditions
The Nairobi Hospital
- Anderson Specialty Clinics
- Comprehensive pediatric services
- State-of-the-art facilities
Kenyatta National Hospital
- Contact: 0705 026 558
- National referral center
- Teaching hospital with latest medical advances
What to Expect During Your Visit
When visiting a pediatric pulmonologist, expect:
- Comprehensive medical history review
- Physical examination focusing on respiratory system
- Lung function tests appropriate for children
- Imaging studies if necessary
- Treatment plan tailored to your child's specific condition
- Follow-up care scheduling
Common Conditions Treated
Pediatric pulmonologists in Nairobi commonly treat:
- Asthma and wheezing disorders
- Chronic cough
- Pneumonia and respiratory infections
- Sleep-related breathing disorders
- Cystic fibrosis
- Bronchopulmonary dysplasia
- Tuberculosis in children
- Allergic respiratory conditions
How to Choose the Right Specialist
When selecting a pediatric pulmonologist:
- Credentials: Ensure they are board-certified in pediatrics and pulmonology
- Experience: Look for specialists with specific pediatric experience
- Hospital Affiliation: Choose doctors affiliated with reputable hospitals
- Communication: Select someone who communicates well with both parents and children
- Location: Consider convenience for regular follow-ups
Making an Appointment
To schedule an appointment:
- Contact the hospital or clinic directly
- Have your child's medical history ready
- Bring previous test results and imaging
- Prepare a list of current medications
- Note any insurance requirements
Important Notes
- Many specialists require referrals from primary care physicians
- Wait times for appointments may vary
- Some specialists may have specific days for pediatric consultations
- Consider insurance coverage when choosing a provider
Emergency Situations
Seek immediate medical attention if your child experiences:
- Severe difficulty breathing
- Blue lips or fingernails
- Persistent high fever with breathing difficulties
- Chest pain with breathing problems
- Sudden onset of severe respiratory symptoms
Nairobi offers several qualified pediatric pulmonologists and respiratory specialists who can provide excellent care for children with lung and breathing conditions. The key is finding the right specialist who can provide comprehensive, child-friendly care tailored to your specific needs.
For the most current contact information and to verify specialist availability, it's recommended to contact the hospitals directly or check their official websites. Many facilities also offer online appointment booking systems for convenience.
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical advice specific to your child's condition.
