Lung Function Testing:

Lung function testing (also called pulmonary function testing) measures how well your lungs are working.

Common tests include:

• Spirometry: Measures how much air you can breathe out and how fast you can do it.

• Lung Volume Test: Assesses the total amount of air in your lungs after taking the deepest breath.

• Diffusion Capacity: Determines how well oxygen moves from your lungs into your blood.

• FeNO (Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide): Measures the level of nitric oxide in your breath, a marker of airway inflammation, often used in asthma management.

• 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT): Assesses how far you can walk on a flat surface in 6 minutes, which helps gauge lung and heart function during physical activity.

Why You Need the Test:

• To help diagnose a lung condition.

• To monitor the progression of a lung disease.

• To assess how well treatments are working.

Instructions for Lung Function Testing:

Before the Test:

• Avoid smoking for at least 4 hours before the test.

• Refrain from eating a heavy meal just before testing, as it may affect your ability to breathe comfortably.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing.

• Avoid vigorous exercise 30 minutes before the test.

• Medications:

  • In certain situations you may be required to withhold some of your inhaled medications

During the Test:

• You will be seated and asked to breathe through a mouthpiece connected to the testing device.

• You’ll wear a nose clip to prevent air from escaping through your nose.

• You may be asked to take a deep breath and blow out as hard and as fast as you can for as long as possible.

• Some tests may require you to take rapid breaths or hold your breath for a few seconds.

• Follow the technician’s instructions carefully to get the most accurate results.

After the Test:

• You can resume normal activities and medications unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider.

• Your doctor will review the results and discuss the findings with you at a follow-up appointment.

What to Expect:

• The test is non-invasive and usually takes about 15-30 minutes.

• You may feel short of breath or lightheaded briefly, but this typically passes quickly.

These tests are important in helping your doctor understand your lung function and will guide appropriate treatments or interventions to manage your respiratory condition. If you have any questions or concerns before the test, don't hesitate to contact us.