Replacing windows for patio doors

I intended to replace the windows I have in the kitchen to patio doors and the doors to a window. Having looked at the windows they are separated by a cement column which could be a lintel. We have a lintel above the windows which will not be touched but want to be sure that we will not be causing any structural weakness to the property a we are a ground floor flat. I therefore need to find out if removing this pillar will cause a problem.