Pulmonary Function Test
Pulmonary Function Tests are noninvasive tests that show how well the lungs are functioning. The tests measure lung volume, limit, paces of stream, and gas trade. This data can help your medical care supplier analyze and choose the therapy of certain lung issues.
Dr.Shriniwas Mante who have special expertise and exhaustive in-depth experience of Sonologist and Radiologist.
Pulmonary function testing is a finished assessment of the respiratory framework including patient history, physical examinations, and tests of pulmonary function. The main role of pulmonary function testing is to recognize the severity of pulmonary impairment.
Pulmonary Function Tests usually takes about 15 minutes to complete.
What is a lung function test or PFT?
If you are wondering what is a PFT test, then here’s the simple explanation for you, PFT lung test is a noninvasive test that not only diagnoses the lung disorder but also helps in deciding the treatment plan as per the kind of lung disorder. PFT includes several tests that monitor the function of the lungs. These tests provide information on the integrity and size of the pulmonary capillary bed, pulmonary parenchyma, and the small and large airways. They are also an effective lung infection test.
Among all, PFT spirometry is the most basic test. This PFT test procedure measures how much air the lungs can hold and also how forcefully air can be emptied from it. PFTs also include lung capacity test that helps in measuring lung size, lung volume and airflow and gas exchange.
It’s not necessary that people with lung disorder or respiratory diseases are the only one to undergo PFTs, even healthy people can go through these tests for a routine health checkup. People working in coal mines and graphite factory should go for PFTs because they are more likely to catch respiratory problems from their work environment.
When to take a PFT Test?
If you have symptoms of any respiratory disorder or a lung infection.
If you are going to have treatment or surgery related to the lungs. At that time, PFTs are recommended to check the actual condition of your lungs and other respiratory organs.
If you are working or living in an environment with a lot of air pollution then surely doctors will recommend you to have PFT as your routine health checkup as such a situation makes you more prone to lung problems.
If you are suffering from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or Asthma then to monitor the duration and effect of these problems, your doctor may recommend you to undergo through PFT test.
How long does a lung function test take?
For those who are wondering about how long does a PFT Test take, the average PFT takes about 45 minutes to complete. However, PFT testing time depends on what the doctor has requested and may vary from one person to another.
What are the side-effects of the lung function test?
Usually, no side effects from the PFTs occur. However, some patients feel a bit tired after the test, which is quite normal. You can continue your normal activities when the test is over.