What is a Pulmonary Function Testing?
Pulmonary Function Testing is actually a series of tests that helps to determine the presence of lung disease or abnormality of lung functions. It consists of a series of breathing maneuvers to measure a patient's breathing capacity. Both deep breathing and relaxed exercises are done. Diffusion studies are done to measure the rate of gas transfer from the lungs to the bloodstream.
Who is at risk for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)?
- Do you have a family history of relatives diagnosed with COPD?
- Are you a current or previous smoker?
- Do you have asthma?
- Do you suffer from shortness of breath?
- Do you have difficulty sleeping?
- Are you bothered with a nagging cough?
Unfortunately, genetics are a major factor in COPD. However, lifestyles also present reasons for COPD. To determine the extent to which a person may have lung diseases or abnormalities present, we may suggest you undergo a series of Pulmonary Function Tests, or PFT.
Prior to the Test
- Eat a light meal, if at all, before testing
- Avoid taking any bronchodilator (breathing) or beta-blocking (blood pressure/heart) medications within 6 hours of testing
- Allow approximately 60-90 minutes for testing
- Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing
What to Expect
After arriving at the pulmonary testing laboratory, a pulmonary history will be completed and a respiratory assessment made. Please bring a list of your current medications so that this information can be included in your history. The tests will be conducted by a respiratory therapist who will instruct you in each procedure.
The final test may involve the use of a bronchodilator drug to test your response to this type of therapy.
If you have any questions regarding pulmonary function testing, please contact us.
