What is a Pulmonary Function Test?

A pulmonary function test is a non–invasive diagnostic procedure conducted while you sit sit in an open glass booth. There are five separate breathing maneuvers that determine:

·        your current capacity (how much air you can hold)

·        how fast you can blast the air out of your lungs.

·        the resistance of air moving out of your lungs and if you  

       are trapping air.

·        how well your lungs can exchange oxygen and carbon

       dioxide efficiently.

·        response to a bronchodilator (a medicine that opens your 

       airways)

Why do I need to do a Pulmonary Function Test?

There are number of reasons why a PFT may be ordered.  A few of the more common ones are listed below:

·        current or prior smoking history

·        any prior exposure to occupational hazards such as

       inhaling chemicals or dust

·        genetic respiratory diseases, such as asthma, cystic

       fibrosis

·        prior to and in some cases following surgery, especially if

       you have a pulmonary problem currently

·        been on medications that may affect lung function

·        determine how lung function has changed over time

·        changes in your pulmonary medications

What will a PFT indicate?

A PFT will help your doctor determine if you have a breathing problem, classify the type of problem you have and determine its severity.

The Day of your PFT…

·        Please do not smoke or drink caffeine the day of the test.

·        Do not use your respiratory medications (inhalers,

       nebulizer and tablets) four hours prior to testing.

·        YOU MAY EAT A LIGHT MEAL 1-2 hours prior to

       testing.

How long does this take?

A complete Pulmonary Function Test will take about an hour to perform.

After the Test:

Your doctor or nurse will review the test results at your next follow-up appointment. This will assist your provider in monitoring the progression and effectiveness of your respiratory disease.