Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are a group of breathing tests. They can show how well your lungs are working. PFTs may measure:
Respiratory System
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PFTs may be used to diagnose lung conditions or diseases, such as:
These tests may also be done to:
Most tests will require you to breathe into a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may be attached to a simple handheld device or be part of a larger machine. Examples of devices are a spirometer or peak flow meter. You may be asked to breathe in and out in different patterns and speeds. You will rest between tests.
Tell the technician right away if you have breathing problems, pain, or dizziness during testing.
Peak Flow Meter
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Other tests that may be used in some situations include:
Rest until you feel able to leave. You may be given medicine if testing has caused wheezing, coughing, and/or difficulty breathing.
20-45 minutes
The test does not hurt. You may feel symptoms of your lung condition during or immediately following testing.
References:
Birnbaum S, Barreiro TJ. Methacholine challenge testing: identifying its diagnostic role, testing, coding, and reimbursement (review). Chest. 2007;131(6):1932-1935.
Chang J, Mosenifar Z. Differentiating COPD from asthma in clinical practice. J Intensive Care Med. 2007;22(5):300-309.
Chu MW. Introduction to pulmonary function. Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 2008;41:387-396.
Crapo RO, Casaburi R, et al. Guidelines for methacholine and exercise challenge testing (1999). Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2000;161:309.
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs). Duke University Health System. DukeHealth.org website. Available at: http://www.dukehealth.org/cancer/health_library/care_guides/treatment_instructions/pulmonaryfunctiontesting. Accessed November 12, 2010.
Walsh JM. Interpreting pulmonary function test. Loyola University Medical Education Network website. Available at: http://www.meddean.luc.edu/lumen/MedEd/medicine/pulmonar/fellow/exam2.htm. Accessed October 30, 2006.
Last reviewed October 2012 by Brian Randall, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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