Critical care is the treatment of people with life-threatening illness in an intensive care unit (ICU). At AK's Amma Hospital in Chittoor, Dr A. Ashok Kumar, a pulmonologist and critical care physician trained in ICU care in Chennai, looks after patients with severe pneumonia, asthma and COPD attacks, respiratory failure and other emergencies, with 24×7 oxygen support, non-invasive ventilation (NIV) and ventilators.
Who needs this care
- Severe pneumonia or chest infection
- Severe asthma or COPD attack
- Respiratory failure and low oxygen
- Sepsis and serious infections
- Other medical emergencies needing close monitoring
Get urgent care if you have
- Struggling to breathe or blue lips
- Confusion, drowsiness or unconsciousness
- Chest pain or fainting
- Oxygen below 90%
Emergency? Call 093448 53689 or 108, or go to the nearest hospital.
Tests that help
Oxygen level (SpO₂) and blood gas checks
A small clip on the finger reads oxygen level at rest and while walking. In the ICU an arterial blood gas test measures oxygen and carbon dioxide directly to guide oxygen and ventilator support.
Chest X-ray and HRCT chest
Pictures of the lungs. A high-resolution CT (HRCT) shows fine detail and is important for ILD, bronchiectasis, unexplained cough and lung spots. Dr Ashok arranges the right scan and explains the report with you.
How Dr Ashok manages it
- 24×7 emergency assessment
- Oxygen therapy and high-flow support
- Non-invasive ventilation (BiPAP / NIV)
- Mechanical ventilation
- Continuous monitoring and blood gas checks
- Clear daily updates for the family
Questions patients ask
What is NIV?
Non-invasive ventilation (NIV or BiPAP) gives breathing support through a tight-fitting mask, without a tube in the throat. It often helps patients with COPD or respiratory failure avoid a ventilator.
Can family members meet ICU patients?
Yes, at set visiting times, and the doctor updates the family on the patient's condition and plan every day.