Assess Your Lung Health and Function
Pulmonary function testing (PFT) is a group of diagnostic tests used to assess how well your lungs are working. These tests measure lung volume, capacity, flow, and gas exchange, helping healthcare providers diagnose and manage conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory disorders. At our clinic, we offer comprehensive pulmonary function testing to help you monitor your lung health and make informed decisions about your treatment.
What is Pulmonary Function Testing?
Pulmonary function testing (PFT) is a non-invasive procedure that evaluates how effectively your lungs are functioning. It involves a series of tests that measure different aspects of lung function, including the ability to inhale, exhale, and transport oxygen into the bloodstream.
PFTs can help doctors diagnose respiratory conditions, monitor lung disease progression, assess treatment effectiveness, and even detect early signs of lung disease before symptoms arise. Whether you're experiencing symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing, or coughing, or you're looking to monitor an existing lung condition, PFTs provide essential insights into your lung health.
Why is Pulmonary Function Testing Important?
- Diagnose Respiratory Conditions: PFTs help identify conditions like asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, and other obstructive or restrictive lung diseases.
- Monitor Disease Progression: If you have a chronic lung condition, regular pulmonary function tests can help track how well your lungs are functioning and whether your treatment plan needs adjustment.
- Assess Treatment Effectiveness: By comparing results over time, your doctor can evaluate how well treatments (such as medication or pulmonary rehabilitation) are working.
- Pre-surgical Evaluation: For individuals planning surgeries that may affect lung function, such as lung surgery or bariatric surgery, pulmonary function testing can assess lung capacity and identify potential risks.
Who Should Have Pulmonary Function Testing?
Pulmonary function testing is recommended for individuals who:
- Experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, or persistent coughing.
- Have a history of smoking or exposure to lung irritants (e.g., workplace pollutants, secondhand smoke).
- Are diagnosed with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD and need regular monitoring.
- Have been diagnosed with a restrictive lung disease or pulmonary fibrosis.
- Are undergoing surgery that may affect lung health.
- Are concerned about lung function due to family history or environmental factors.
