Pulmonary Function Tests
Pulmonary function tests assess lung performance, measuring lung volume, capacity, rates of flow, and gas exchange.
Procedure
Depending on the reason for the test, there are 2 methods in testing pulmonary function.
• Spirometry: This test measures the amount of air you breathe in and out. For this test, you’ll be fitted with a mouthpiece that’s hooked up to a machine. Your nose will be clipped to keep you from breathing through your nose. You will then breathe normally, and your doctor may ask you to breathe in and out as deeply or as quickly as you can.
• Plethysmography: This test measures the volume of your lungs by measuring the volume of gas in your lungs. For this test, you’ll breathe into a mouthpiece while in a small booth. Your doctor can learn about your lung volume by measuring the pressure in the booth.
Benefits
Pulmonary function tests can help diagnose lung conditions, or can test how existing conditions are progressing or responding to treatment.
FAQs
If you’re on medication that opens your airways, such as those for asthma, your doctor may ask you to stop taking them before the test, as you won’t get an accurate measure of your lung’s organic performance. It’s important not to eat a large meal before your test, as a full stomach can prevent your lungs from inhaling fully. You should also avoid caffeine, smoking, or strenuous exercise before your test.
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