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  5. Pulmonary Function Tests

Pulmonary Function Tests

A pulmonary function test (PFT) is done to determine if a person has a lung disorder or disease. The PFT requires breathing into a mouthpiece attached to a machine. This machine measures the amount of air a person breathes in and out, as well as the speed of the process.

A Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP), who is specially trained in PFT, will perform the test. Your doctor will discuss the reason(s) for your PFT with you.

A PFT may be done to determine:

  • Risks before surgery
  • Overactive airways
  • Occupational disabilities
  • Chronic lung disease
  • Progress of a disease
  • Courses of treatment
  • Effects of various medications

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) include:

  • Spirometry
  • DLCO
  • Lung volume testing
  • Arterial blood gas analysis
  • Oxygen saturation measurements
  • Maximum inspiratory and expiratory forces
  • Bronchoscopy
  • Methacholine challenge testing

During Your PFT

A Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP), who is specially trained in PFT, will perform the test. It will take about one hour. Your RCP will be happy to answer your questions.

During the test, you'll breathe into a tube attached to a machine. You will take a deep breath, then exhale as quickly and forcefully as possible into the machine. You will do this several times, resting between breaths. The total time you will spend breathing into the machine will be about 15 minutes or less. You will feel no resistance as you breathe into the machine.

We'll give you medicine to open your airways and maybe also draw a small amount of blood from an artery in your arm to measure your blood-oxygen level.

Getting Ready for Your PFT or Methacholine Challenge Test

  • Do not take breathing medications (inhalers or nebulizers) before your test.
  • Do not take Singulair® for 24 hours before your test.
  • Do not eat a large meal for 4-6 hours before your test.
  • Do not smoke or use alcoholic beverages before your test.
  • Do not drink coffee, tea or other beverages that contain caffeine including soft drinks (Coke, Pepsi, Mountain Dew, etc.) before your test.
  • Do not eat any chocolate before your test.

Activities that should preferably be avoided prior to lung function testing:

  • Smoking within at least 1 hour of testing.
  • Consuming alcohol within 4 hours of testing.
  • Performing vigorous exercise within 30 minutes of testing.
  • Wearing clothing that substantially restricts full chest and abdominal expansion.
  • Eating a large meal within 2 hours of testing.

Need Help Finding an Expert?

Pulmonary

Cardiology

Call 1-800-SENTARA (1-800-736-8272) to learn more.

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