Pulmonary Function Testing

What is pulmonary function testing?

Pulmonary function testing (PFT) is a group of noninvasive tests the Southwest Pulmonary Associates team uses to evaluate how well your lungs are working.

These tests measure the quantity of air you can inhale and exhale, how fast you can blow air out, and how efficiently your lungs deliver oxygen to your blood.

Why would I need a pulmonary function test?

Your provider may recommend pulmonary function testing if you have symptoms like a chronic cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, or fatigue. These tests can help them diagnose conditions such as:

• Asthma
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Pulmonary fibrosis
• Other lung diseases

Pulmonary function tests also check how well your lungs work before you have scheduled surgery and are useful for monitoring the effects of treatment over time.

What happens during pulmonary function testing?

Pulmonary function testing is safe and painless. Your provider asks you to breathe into a device called a spirometer, which measures how much air you can move in and out of your lungs and how quickly you can do so.

You might also do a lung volume test, which checks how much air your lungs can hold, or a diffusion test, which measures how well oxygen passes from your lungs into your blood. The entire process usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.

What preparation is required for pulmonary function testing?

Before you undergo pulmonary function tests, the Southwest Pulmonary Associates team may ask you to avoid using inhalers for a few hours or to hold off on heavy meals, caffeine, or smoking.

Wear comfortable clothing to your appointment and follow any specific instructions the team provides to ensure the most accurate results.

What information does pulmonary function testing provide?

Pulmonary function test results help Southwest Pulmonary Associates understand if your lungs are working properly. If your lung function is lower than expected, it may indicate an underlying condition, such as asthma or chronic bronchitis. The team presents the results in clear terms and develops a treatment plan based on their findings.

They use state-of-the-art technology and follow expert guidelines to ensure accurate, high-quality testing. With years of experience in diagnosing and treating lung conditions, they’re committed to helping you breathe better and live healthier — starting with a clear picture of your lung function.

Call Southwest Pulmonary Associates to learn more about pulmonary function testing or request an appointment online today.