Breathing is something that we often take for granted until we experience a respiratory problem. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are a ray of hope for people with respiratory issues. PFTs refer to a group of tests that provide valuable information about your lung health and functioning.
Spirometry, cardiopulmonary stress test, bronchial provocation test, pulse oximetry test, plethysmography test, and diffusion capacity test are some most common pulmonary function tests. They are safe and noninvasive, meaning there is no need to put a tool in your lungs to perform this test.
PFTs also offer numerous benefits. In this article, we will explore these benefits, as well as where you can go in North Texas to get pulmonary function tests from a board-certified lung doctor.
Diagnosis of Pulmonary Conditions
Doctors use pulmonary function tests to diagnose respiratory conditions in people with respiratory symptoms like cough or shortness of breath. Common respiratory conditions that a pulmonary function test can diagnose include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, narrowing of the trachea, respiratory infection, and weakness of the breathing muscles.
By measuring airflow rates, lung volume, and gas exchange, pulmonary function tests help pulmonologists identify the underlying cause of cough and breathing difficulties.
Monitoring Disease Progression
For people with chronic respiratory disorders, such as asthma and COPD, monitoring disease progression is crucial for personalized care. PFTs play a vital role in this aspect as they provide your lung doctor with valuable insight into how your lungs function over time.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Treatment
By regularly performing pulmonary function tests and comparing the results with the result of previous tests, lung doctors can also evaluate the effectiveness of treatment for respiratory conditions like asthma, emphysema, and other chronic lung problems. This helps doctors know if or when they need to adjust medication dosage or care.
Evaluating Lung Function Before Surgery
Certain individuals with heart or lung problems and who are smokers are advised to get pulmonary function tests done before undergoing surgery or other procedure that involves the use of anesthesia.
As a part of the pre-operative evaluation, pulmonary function tests provide your pulmonologist with valuable information that helps them assess the patient’s respiratory health and determine whether surgery or other procedure is suitable for them or not. PFTs can also reveal potential risks and limitations associated with the procedure, as well as determine the level of anesthesia required to safely perform the procedure.
Identifying the Early Signs of Lungs Disease
Regular pulmonary function tests can help pulmonologists identify the early signs of lung diseases, particularly in people whose occupations expose them to respiratory hazards such as dust, fumes, or other toxins or chemicals.
Regular monitoring of lung function also helps lung doctors understand how exposure to a particular substance is affecting the lungs as well as guides preventative measures to minimize occupational hazards exposure.
Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Pulmonary Function Test
If your doctor has recommended that you get a pulmonary function test, here are some tips that can help you get the most out of your test:
- Stop taking your breathing medications for a prescribed period before your test.
- Avoid any strenuous exercise or physical activity before your PFTs.
- Refrain from using tobacco products before your test.
- Do not eat a heavy meal before your PFTs.
- Avoid caffeine or caffeine products before your test.
Pulmonary Function Test Near Me in Weatherford, TX
If you notice any change in your breathing, reach out to our highly trained and skilled lung doctor at Lung & Sleep Specialists of North Texas. Dr. Oseni will perform a thorough evaluation of your lung health and function through pulmonary function tests and other tests to identify the cause of your breathing problem. Based on the results, he will develop a personalized treatment plan designed to address your unique issue.
If you would like to make an appointment with us, request one here or call us at (817) 594-9993. We look forward to treating you!