Pulmonary function testing may involve one or several tests of your lungs including spirometry, lung volumes, diffusion testing, and oxygen saturation measurement by oximetry or blood gas sampling. These are tests which determine how well your lungs are functioning and most involve blowing into a tube with your nose plugged. We measure the volume, flow, and oxygen transfer capabilities of your lungs. Pulmonary function testing is very safe. It helps to formalize a diagnosis which can lead to optimizing treatment strategies.
There are many lung disorders, the most common being asthma, COPD / emphysema, bronchitis, and lung fibrosis. There are also heart, muscle, and arthritic diseases which can affect the lungs. People can have symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and wheeziness.
The test lasts approximately 45 minutes to one hour. After the majority of breathing tests are performed our patients are given up to four puffs (400 mcg) of Ventolin. Approximately 10 minutes later the therapist will have you retry the first breathing test. This is a simple way of determining if the Ventolin has had an effect on your breathing.
At YRPFT, we strive for quality testing by qualified technologists. We follow the guidelines of the American Thoracic Society strictly and perform the tests on state-of-the-art equipment. All breathing tests are interpreted by a Respirologist. This is a physician that specializes in breathing problems.
Please be aware that the technologist is not allowed to give you the results of your pulmonary function test. The report will be interpreted by a Respirologist on staff or by your own Respirologist. A copy will then be sent to your family doctor within 1 – 2 days.
