Medical specialties explained

Last updated: August 12, 2026 · Reviewed by the PickTheDoc.com team · Editorial policy

Each guide below explains, in plain language, what that type of doctor treats, when people typically see one, and when a symptom warrants urgent care instead. If you are not sure where to start, use the symptom finder.

• Primary Care Physician

  A primary care physician treats everyday illness, manages chronic conditions, handles checkups, and is the safest starting point when your symptoms are unclear.

• Dermatologist

  A dermatologist treats conditions of the skin, hair, and nails, including rashes, acne, eczema, hair loss, and suspicious moles.

• Cardiologist

  A cardiologist treats the heart and blood vessels, including chest pain, palpitations, high blood pressure, and shortness of breath on exertion.

• ENT (Otolaryngologist)

  An ENT, or otolaryngologist, treats the ears, nose, throat, and sinuses, including ear pain, hearing loss, chronic congestion, and hoarseness.

• Orthopedist

  An orthopedist treats bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons, including back pain, joint pain, sports injuries, and limited mobility.

• Gastroenterologist

  A gastroenterologist treats the digestive system, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and blood in the stool.

• Neurologist

  A neurologist treats the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, including migraines, dizziness, numbness, tremors, seizures, and memory problems.

• Ophthalmologist

  An ophthalmologist treats the eyes and vision, including blurred vision, eye pain, floaters and flashes, dry eyes, and chronic redness.

• Pulmonologist

  A pulmonologist treats the lungs and breathing, including chronic cough, wheezing, asthma, recurring bronchitis, and difficulty breathing.

• OB-GYN

  An OB-GYN treats female reproductive and pelvic health, including irregular periods, pelvic pain, menopause symptoms, and pregnancy care.

• Psychiatrist / Mental Health

  A psychiatrist treats mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, panic attacks, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating.

• Urologist

  A urologist treats the urinary system and male reproductive health, including painful or frequent urination, blood in urine, and kidney stones.