Pulmonary Function Testing

Your doctor has ordered a pulmonary function test. What does that mean? Whatever lung condition you’re experiencing, from breathing problems to chronic lung disease, we can help you find answers to your questions about these tests.

Do you have a pulmonary function test scheduled? The team at Beaufort Memorial Pulmonary Specialists can answer any questions you have. Call us today at 843-707-8040.

What Is a Pulmonary Function Test?

A pulmonary function test measures how well your lungs move oxygen in and out of your body. Your doctor might order this specialized lung function test if you have trouble breathing, a chronic lung condition or lung disease. A pulmonary function test may also be ordered to evaluate your lung function prior to surgery.

What Does a Pulmonary Function Test Measure?

A pulmonary function test will measure:

• How much and how quickly air can be inhaled and exhaled from your lungs
• How well your lungs deliver oxygen to your blood
• The strength of your breathing muscles

“Normal” pulmonary function test results vary person to person. So our pulmonologists will compare the amount of air you inhale and exhale with someone of the same age, height, sex and race to determine next steps.

Types of Lung Function Tests

Depending on your specific lung problems, you may receive one or more of the following tests:

• Spirometry: This breathing test is used to measure the amount of air you breathe in and out as well as how quickly you can exhale. To get a clear reading, a respiratory technician places a gentle clip around your nostrils so you breathe through your mouth. You then inhale deeply and breathe out with as much force and speed as you can into a tube, which is connected to a breathing monitor. Some coughing or mild dizziness is occasionally experienced and normal for anyone with breathing problems.

• Lung volume: This pulmonary function test, also called a body plethysmography, measures the amount of air in your lungs after you take a deep breath. It then calculates how completely you can empty your lungs after you breathe out. For this test, you sit in a clear booth that records a change in pressure when you breathe to discover how much air enters your lungs when you inhale.

• Lung diffusion capacity: This test measures the amount of oxygen that enters your bloodstream from your lungs when you breathe. During this test, you breathe in a safe gas through a tube, hold your breath briefly and then blow out the gas. The gas that you breathe out is measured.

• Exercise test: An exercise test determines how well your lungs function when your breathing and heart rate increase. You may walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike while your blood pressure, heart rate and blood oxygen level are monitored. Between each patient, the tubes used for breathing are changed and the testing equipment is thoroughly sanitized. A medical-grade air filter helps prevent the spread of germs. Your technician will answer any questions you may have about the process.

Pulmonary testing is the first step to finding a treatment plan that’s right for you. If you’d like to breathe easier, regain your energy and improve your quality of life, call 843-707-8040 to make an appointment with a member of our pulmonology team.