Pulmonary Function Testing
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Sunit R Patel, M.D., F.C.C.P., D.A.B.S.M.
Pulmonary & Sleep Specialist located in Merced & Turlock, CA
Pulmonary function testing is a central part of the diagnostic process if you have problems like shortness of breath or chest discomfort. At his offices in Merced and Turlock, California, skilled pulmonary care specialist Sunit R. Patel, MD, offers pulmonary function testing on-site for your convenience. Call the office in your area or use the online booking tool to schedule your assessment.
Pulmonary Function Testing Q & A
What is pulmonary function testing?
Pulmonary function testing assesses your lung function. You may need this type of testing to determine the reason for breathing issues, evaluate the effectiveness of your current treatment, or evaluate your lung function prior to a scheduled surgical procedure.
At Sunit R. Patel, MD, the main purpose of pulmonary function testing is to diagnose conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
What are common types of pulmonary function testing?
There are many types of pulmonary function testing, including:
Spirometry
Spirometry, the most common pulmonary function test, involves inhaling and exhaling using a mouthpiece connected to a machine. This test measures how much air you can take in and push out, and how fast you do so.
Lung volume test
In a lung volume test, you sit in an isolated, airtight room. You’re asked to inhale and exhale into a mouthpiece, and the test measures the total amount of air in your lungs and how much air lingers after you empty your lungs as much as possible.
Gas diffusion test
A gas diffusion test works similar to the other tests, but in this test you breathe in a tiny (safe) quantity of gas, such as carbon monoxide. This test can show how effectively the air sacs inside your lungs take in oxygen and expel toxins.
Other types of pulmonary function tests include exercise stress tests and exhaled nitric oxide tests (FeNO).
The team at Sunit R. Patel, MD, can recommend specific pulmonary function tests according to the symptoms you're experiencing and your health needs.
Many people undergo a combination of these tests to get a well-rounded picture of their respiratory system health.
What happens after pulmonary function testing?
After pulmonary function testing, the team explains your test results and diagnosis. In many cases, you start a treatment plan right away.
For example, if you have asthma, the team may prescribe both short-acting "rescue" medications for asthma attacks and long-acting medications to prevent attacks.
The team may also recommend lifestyle changes to maximize your health and minimize lung-related problems.
To learn more about how pulmonary function testing can help you overcome breathing issues and other lung problems, call the office of Sunit R. Patel, MD, closest to you or use the online scheduler.
