Pulmonary function tests

Description pulmonary function tests

Pulmonary function tests (IFL) It refers to a group of breathing tests, that help the doctor determine, how well your lungs work.

Reasons for study Lung Function

IPF can be used to:

• Diagnosis of lung diseases, such as:
  • Asthma;
  • Эmfizema;
  • Chronic bronchitis;
• Measurement, how the problem affects the health of the lungs;
• Estimates of some symptoms – cough, wheezing, breathing problems;
• Evaluating the effectiveness of treatment;
• Estimates of lung function before and after surgery.

How is pulmonary function tests?

Preparation for the procedure

• We need to tell the doctor about the medications taken. Maybe, some of them should stop taking before testing;
• You can not eat, smoke, or expose themselves to Duty 4-8 hours prior to testing;
• Put on the procedure for free, clothing does not restrict movement.

Procedure pulmonary function tests

The specialist will explain, How is the test and how the device works (spirometr, of meters) for IPF. You can sit in a closed cabin. Maybe, it will be necessary to use a nose clip. In some cases, one or more tests will be carried out during or immediately after a load (on a treadmill or stationary bike). Immediately tell your doctor, If you are having trouble breathing, pain or dizziness during testing.

A technician will ask you to inhale and exhale into the device for IPF. In the test, you will have a rest.

Pulmonary function tests help assess:

• How much air you can breathe;
• How much air the lungs can hold at different times;
• How difficult is it to you to breathe in the air.

Additional tests, which may be used, in some cases, include:

• The degree of blood oxygen saturation – a small probe is painlessly attached or fastened to one of the fingers or toes. It measures the amount of oxygen in the blood;
• Provocative tests – you are exposed to a particular chemical,, and then the measured rate of change due to respiratory effects of the substance. Testing is carried out only in limited cases, under close and careful supervision.

After pulmonary function tests

Relax, until you feel, I am able to go home. You may be given medicine, if testing causes symptoms of lung disease (eg, labored breathing, cough).

How long will the study of lung function?

20-45 minutes.

Pulmonary function tests – Will it hurt?

The test is not harmful to health. You may experience symptoms of your lung disease or disorder (eg, labored breathing, cough) during or immediately after the test.

The results of pulmonary function tests

The doctor will compare the test results with the charts of normal values ​​based on your age, gender and height. It will tell you the results and decide, whether to carry out further testing or treatment is needed.

Contact your doctor after pulmonary function tests

After IFL should see a doctor, If the following symptoms:

• Headache, nausea, muscle aches, dizziness, or general malaise;
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing;
• Chest Pain.