Fasting Required: Avoid a large/heavy
meal before the test
Reports Available: Daily
Details
Description
Pulmonary function tests or PFT
tests are most advanced non-invasive diagnostic tests to perform the diagnosis
and monitoring of lung functions. These
tests measure the lung’s capacity, volume, rate of flow, and gas exchange.
The results of PFT tests enable
doctors to create an effective treatment plan for a variety of lung-related
illnesses and disorders.
This group of tests can detect and
identify various lung disorders. As each lung condition might manifest a
different set of symptoms, hence each recommended test will depend on which
condition and what symptoms you might be suffering from.
What is a Pulmonary Function Test
(PFT)?
PFT stands for Pulmonary Function
Test. A PFT helps to evaluate the respiratory system of the body. It is a
non-invasive test that measures the lung volume, capacity, and airflow to see
how well the lungs of the body are working.
A PFT is done to help detect lung
diseases that make it difficult to breathe, including:
Asthma
Respiratory infections
Allergies
Bronchitis
Chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease (COPD)
Lung cancer
Thickened, swollen airways
How Is the Test Performed?
During a PFT, a sterile mouthpiece
that is attached to a spirometer is given to the patient. The patient’s nose
will be clipped so all the breathing takes place through the mouth. The patient
has to sit and breathe in and out (inhale and exhale), in different ways while
the doctor will monitor the procedure.
Precaution
There are no special preparations
required for a Pulmonary Function Test.
However, it’s important that you
don’t eat heavy meal before testing. A full stomach can prevent your lungs from
inhaling fully.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing
on the day of the test.
Any ongoing medication should be
stopped, as advised by the doctor.
Caffeine and smoking should be
avoided.
Any form of strenuous exercise
should be avoided before the test.
