A pulmonary function test , also known as a lung function test, is a frequently used test used to measure the lungs' performance. In short, it's used to measure how well your lungs are functioning. A pulmonary function test determines the condition of your lungs by measuring the volume and speed of air moving in and out of your lungs during breathing. This test can help detect the onset or symptoms of a disease. It can also help monitor the progress of an existing condition during treatment. The device used in a pulmonary function test is called a spirometry device (spirometer).

In pulmonary function testing devices, the patient is placed through the mouth and asked to breathe in and out. The test may be extended to confirm a diagnosis. In some cases, the patient may be asked to cough, hold their breath, or breathe rapidly repeatedly. While this may cause dizziness or fatigue, the procedure has no serious side effects. While the tests may appear simple, the results can determine the diagnosis, stage, and other characteristics of many different diseases.

Why is a pulmonary function test performed?

Respiratory function tests may be requested from patients when the following diseases are suspected:

• Asthma, shortness of breath,
• Pulmonary fibrosis (hardening of lung tissue),
• In COPD diseases (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease),
• Chronic bronchitis
• Emphysema
• Pulmonary fibrosis

Spirometry testing can also be used for some chronic lung diseases other than these, but it is most often used to diagnose the aforementioned conditions. It is also performed periodically to check whether treatment is working.

Who can have a pulmonary function test?

• Those who have abnormal findings on their chest X-ray,
• Those who have complaints of shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and expectoration,
• Those who will undergo lung or heart surgery,
• For those who will undergo surgery under general anesthesia
• To those who have been smoking for a long time, whether they have complaints or not,
• To the athletes,
• Those who work in jobs that affect the lungs (miners, detergent, battery factory workers, bird feeders, etc.),
• Those who are prescribed respiratory, anti-inflammatory, and protective medications due to lung disease, and those whose effects are to be investigated.

Because the purposes of pulmonary function tests vary, they can be used to diagnose many different conditions. Your doctor may request various tests to assess your risk of illness based on your current symptoms. The results of these tests also help determine the appropriate treatment for your condition.

At what age can pulmonary function tests be performed?

For breathing tests to be performed, children must be old enough to follow specific commands (such as taking a deep breath, exhaling quickly, continuing to exhale without taking a breath). Therefore, in daily practice, children over the age of 6 are generally able to perform these tests.

How is a pulmonary function test performed?

There are certain procedures that patients must follow before the test. These procedures are explained in detail to the patient by the specialist who will be performing the test. You should listen carefully and ask questions if you don't understand anything. For meaningful and accurate test results, it's crucial that you follow these instructions and breathe appropriately.

Results can be affected by many different factors. Here are some general rules to follow to get the most accurate results:

• Age, height and body weight are determined.
• All regularly used medications should be reported to the specialist.
• If you have recently had eye disease, chest disease or similar illnesses, this should be reported to the specialist.
• You should not smoke or drink alcohol for a certain period of time before the test.
• Overeating and strenuous exercise should be avoided before the test.
• Before the test, products containing caffeine such as tea and coffee should not be consumed.
• Clothing that will hinder chest movement and breathing should not be preferred.
• Depending on the situation, body mass index may be checked.

A pulmonary function test is usually performed while you are seated. A clip is placed on your nose to keep your nostrils closed. After placing a breathing apparatus attached to a tube connected to a spirometer into your mouth, you will be asked to take a deep breath and exhale as quickly as possible. Full coverage of the apparatus tip with your lips is essential to prevent air from escaping. To ensure the test is accurate, it is necessary to take the same test three times. If the three results differ significantly, the test can be repeated. This procedure usually takes less than 15 minutes. After the tests are completed, a decision can be made regarding treatment and the development or recovery of the disease.

Most frequently asked questions?

Are pulmonary function tests a painful procedure?

No, it is not a painful procedure. During the breathing test, the patient is asked to inhale and exhale as instructed by the healthcare professional performing the test. It is not a painful procedure.

Is medication given to the patient during breathing tests?

Normally, a patient is not given medication. However, sometimes, if test results are low, if there are complaints, or if the diagnosis is being made for the first time, the test is administered with medication. Short-acting respiratory stimulants are administered to the patient through the respiratory tract. A rise in results after the medication indicates inflammatory sensitivity in the airways.

Who is at risk for respiratory function risks?

Before undergoing the pulmonary function test, patients should inform their doctor if they have any medical conditions related to this condition. These include:

– Previous myocardial infarction

– Uncontrolled hypertension

– Those who have recently had eye surgery

– Patients who have had lung and abdominal surgery and have severe pain

– Those with respiratory system infections.

Ankara Magnet Hospital respiratory function testing is performed using computerized spirometer device monitor technology.