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Pulmonary Function Test

Pulmonary Function Test

Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) or lung function tests is a generic term used to indicate a battery of studies or maneuvers that may be performed using standardized equipment to measure lung function. PFTs can include simple screening spirometry, formal lung volume measurement, diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide, and arterial blood gases. These studies may collectively be referred to as a complete pulmonary function survey.
  • Lung function tests, also known as pulmonary function tests, or PFTs, are a group of tests that check to see if your lungs are working right. The tests help with the following:
  • Diagnose the presence or absence of lung disease. 
  • Quantify the extent of known disease on lung function.
  • Measure the effects of occupational/environmental exposure.
  • Determine the beneficial or negative effects of therapy.
  • Assess risk for surgical procedure.
  • Evaluate disability or impairments.
  • Clinical research involving lung health or disease
  • Spirometry. The most common type of lung function test. It measures how much and how quickly you can move air in and out of your lungs.
  • Lung volume test. Also known as body plethysmography. This test measures the amount of air you can hold in your lungs and the amount of air that remains after you exhale (breathe out) as much as you can.
  • Gas diffusion test. This test measures how oxygen and other gases move from the lungs to the bloodstream.
  • Exercise stress test. This test looks at how exercise affects lung function.
These tests may be used together or by themselves, depending on your specific symptoms or condition. Other names: pulmonary function tests, PFT.
To prepare for a lung function test, you’ll need to take some steps to ensure your breathing is normal and unrestricted. These include:
  • Don’t eat a heavy meal before the test.
  • Avoid food or drinks with caffeine.
  • Don’t smoke or do heavy exercise for six hours before the test.
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
  • If you wear dentures, you’ll need to wear them during the test. They can help you form a tight seal around the mouthpiece.
Are there any risks to the tests? There is very little risk to having a lung function test. Some people may feel lightheaded or dizzy during the procedure. Also, some people may feel claustrophobic during a lung volume test. If you have questions or concerns about the tests, talk to your health care provider.
  • Lung function tests, also known as pulmonary function tests, or PFTs, are a group of tests that check to see if your lungs are working right. The tests help with the following:
  • Diagnose the presence or absence of lung disease. 
  • Quantify the extent of known disease on lung function.
  • Measure the effects of occupational/environmental exposure.
  • Determine the beneficial or negative effects of therapy.
  • Assess risk for surgical procedure.
  • Evaluate disability or impairments.
  • Clinical research involving lung health or disease
  • Lung function tests, also known as pulmonary function tests, or PFTs, are a group of tests that check to see if your lungs are working right. The tests help with the following:
  • Diagnose the presence or absence of lung disease. 
  • Quantify the extent of known disease on lung function.
  • Measure the effects of occupational/environmental exposure.
  • Determine the beneficial or negative effects of therapy.
  • Assess risk for surgical procedure.
  • Evaluate disability or impairments.
  • Clinical research involving lung health or disease