Who Are the Types of Doctors That Investigate Diseases & Viruses?

Diseases and viruses have been around since the beginning of time. Smallpox caused the death of many Native Americans when the settlers and explorers discovered the New World. Today, there are doctors who commit their lives to investigating and researching the causes, symptoms and possible cures for diseases and viruses in our world.

General Practitioner, Internal Medicine and Pediatrician

• The general practitioner, internal medicine and pediatrician are the most important doctors investigating diseases and viruses from a patients point of view. These doctors are the first line of professional medical defense in diagnosing and treating diseases and viruses. Most conditions are diagnosed through symptoms, blood or urine tests, x-rays, or medical equipment scans. When a disease or virus is not fully detectable or treatment options are limited from these doctors, a patient will be referred to a specialist in that area.

Virologist

• Most people know what a virus is, but may not have ever heard of a virologist. This profession is increasingly becoming more important for the health care industry. Virologists study viruses that have managed to get into the human system and cause various reactions in the human body, including skin disorders, immune system shut down or physical disorders. Virologists look for ways to stop these organisms from growing in the body.

Oncologists

• Oncologists are better known as cancer doctors. These doctors investigate and treat various diseases, including cancers of the stomach, breast, brain, esophagus and lymph nodes. They also treat tumors and malignant conditions. Through research and patient discussion, an oncologist will formulate the best course of action for the patient. Some treatments include chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Oncologists have an advanced medical degree because of the specialty area they work in. Oncologists use radiation and surgery to fight most conditions and continually strive to a better understanding of the disease to eventually find a cure.

Cardiologists

• Cardiologists investigate the diseases and viruses that affect the heart. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prefention, heart disease is the number one killer of men and women in the United States. Viruses like endocarditis cause inflammation of the heart and can lead to death if not treated. Cardiologists will diagnose and treat these conditions with surgery and medication.