Cough and Weight Loss? Your Next Healthcare Steps in Dallas, TX
Feeling a Cough and Weight Loss? A Guide to Your Next Healthcare Steps in Dallas, TX
If you’ve had a cough that just won’t go away for weeks, and now you’ve started losing weight without trying, it’s completely understandable to feel concerned. These symptoms can be unsettling because they might mean something more serious than a simple cold. You’re not alone in feeling nervous, and it’s very wise to seek clarity and guidance. This post is here to help you understand what steps to take next, which healthcare professionals in Dallas, TX, could be best suited to evaluate your symptoms, and what you might expect in terms of visits and costs.
You’re in the right place to get clear, simple information so you can take confident action toward finding the right medical care.
Who to See for Your Symptoms in Dallas, TX
Based on your symptoms of a persistent cough and unexplained weight loss, here are a few types of doctors who could be a good starting point:
- Family Practice Doctor: A generalist who can diagnose and treat a wide range of health issues. They often serve as the first contact for new symptoms and can help coordinate further tests or referrals.
- Internal Medicine Doctor: Specialists in adult medicine who focus on diagnosing and managing complex or chronic conditions. They can evaluate your symptoms thoroughly and order more detailed testing.
- Pulmonary Disease Specialist: A lung specialist who focuses on respiratory conditions. If your cough relates to lung health, this provider can perform specialized tests to understand what is causing it.
- Infectious Disease Specialist: If an infection is suspected as the cause of your cough and weight loss, this doctor can provide expert diagnosis and treatment.
Each of these providers can help identify the cause of your symptoms and recommend the right treatment plan.
What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs
Here’s a breakdown of common procedures these providers might perform during your first visits, along with estimated costs in Dallas, TX.
Visit with a Family Practice Doctor
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Procedure: Office or Other Outpatient Visit (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: This is a detailed visit where the doctor listens to your symptoms, reviews your medical history, and performs a physical exam to understand your condition.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $193.57 (typically ranges from $145.18 to $241.96)
This estimate is based on 494 providers in the Dallas area. -
Procedure: X-ray of Chest, 2 Views (CPT Code: 71046)
Purpose: A chest X-ray helps to look for lung infections, inflammation, or other problems that might explain your cough.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $47.31 (typically ranges from $35.48 to $59.14)
This estimate is based on 42 providers. -
Procedure: Blood Sample Collection (CPT Code: 36415)
Purpose: Taking blood helps check for infections, anemia, or other causes of weight loss.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $13.09 (typically ranges from $9.82 to $16.36)
This estimate is based on 204 providers. -
Procedure: Automated Urinalysis Test (CPT Code: 81003)
Purpose: A urine test screens for infections or other health issues that might relate to your symptoms.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $6.16 (typically ranges from $2.63 to $9.70)
This estimate is based on 85 providers.
Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor
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Procedure: Office or Other Outpatient Visit (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: A thorough evaluation tailored to adults, helping assess complex symptoms and plan investigations.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $194.08 (typically ranges from $145.56 to $242.60)
This estimate is based on 508 providers. -
Procedure: X-ray of Chest, 2 Views (CPT Code: 71046)
Purpose: Used to detect lung or chest problems causing the cough.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $48.72 (typically ranges from $36.54 to $60.90)
This estimate is based on 72 providers. -
Procedure: Complete Blood Cell Count Test (CPT Code: 85025)
Purpose: Measures different blood cells to check for infection or other blood-related causes of weight loss.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $13.47 (typically ranges from $9.10 to $17.84)
This estimate is based on 57 providers. -
Procedure: Hemoglobin A1c Level (CPT Code: 83036)
Purpose: This blood test checks your average blood sugar level and can detect diabetes or other related conditions.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $17.25 (typically ranges from $11.38 to $23.13)
This estimate is based on 79 providers. -
Procedure: Routine Electrocardiogram (EKG) (CPT Code: 93000)
Purpose: This test records your heart’s electrical activity and can help identify heart conditions that may contribute to symptoms.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $24.13 (typically ranges from $16.97 to $31.30)
This estimate is based on 212 providers.
Visit with a Pulmonary Disease Specialist
-
Procedure: Office or Other Outpatient Visit (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: Focused evaluation of lung health to diagnose respiratory causes of your cough and weight loss.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $185.71 (typically ranges from $139.28 to $232.14)
This estimate is based on 95 providers. -
Procedure: X-ray of Chest, 2 Views (CPT Code: 71046)
Purpose: Helps find lung infections, masses, or other abnormalities.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $49.76 (typically ranges from $37.32 to $62.20)
This estimate is based on 12 providers. -
Procedure: Lung Function Test (CPT Code: 94010)
Purpose: Measures how well air moves in and out of your lungs, which can diagnose conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $26.77 (typically ranges from $15.55 to $38.00)
This estimate is based on 66 providers. -
Procedure: Lung Gas Exchange Test (CPT Code: 94729)
Purpose: Examines how well oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged in your lungs, helping assess lung efficiency.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $48.26 (typically ranges from $31.16 to $65.36)
This estimate is based on 75 providers. -
Procedure: Lung Airway Exam Using Endoscope (CPT Code: 31623)
Purpose: A specialized test that looks directly inside the lung airways using a small camera, typically used if other tests need further detail.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $231.56 (widely varying range from $0.37 to $462.74)
This estimate is based on 3 providers.
Visit with an Infectious Disease Specialist
- Procedure: Office or Other Outpatient Visit (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: Detailed evaluation if an infection is suspected as the source of your symptoms, guiding specialized treatment.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $181.63 (typically ranges from $136.22 to $227.04)
This estimate is based on 37 providers.
Your Recommended Next Steps
You’re doing the right thing by searching for answers, and now the best next step is to see a qualified healthcare professional as soon as possible. Here’s what to do next:
- Schedule an Appointment: Contact one of the highlighted provider types — starting with a Family Practice or Internal Medicine doctor is often easiest for initial evaluation.
- Prepare for Your Visit: Write down your symptoms, how long they’ve lasted, any weight changes, and questions you want to ask. This helps your doctor understand your situation quickly.
- Discuss Costs Upfront: The costs listed here are estimates; check with the provider’s office on fees and insurance coverage when you book your appointment.
- Stay Positive and Proactive: Seeking professional advice is key. Early evaluation can bring peace of mind or timely treatment.
Need Help Navigating Your Options?
Finding affordable, trustworthy care can be confusing, especially if you’re uninsured or new to the system. That’s why we built Transparent Health: a tool to help you understand your options and find the right provider for your needs.
Disclaimer: This blog post provides general information and estimated costs intended to help guide you. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance.