LUNG FUNCTION TEST

A pulmonary function tests (PFT) are a set of diagnostic tests used to evaluate your child’s lung function or to measure any changse in lung health. It is often used to diagnose and monitor chronic pulmonary conditions like Asthma.   

Spirometry is one of the most common type of pulmonary function test and is performed by blowing into a plastic tube. The test measures how much air your child can exhale in a single breath and how fast the air comes out. It is especially helpful for determining whether there are any obstructions in the airways that cause difficulty in breathing.  

 A few things to keep in mind before you come for the test:

• Avoid eating large meals before testing.
• Wear loose clothing.
• Continue daily medications unless instructed otherwise.
• You will be advised to stop using your blue inhaler (like albuterol or ipratropium) at least six hours before the test and your other inhalers for a period of 10-12 hours before the test. v

• Pulmonary function tests do not cause discomfort.  
• It is completely safe and very rarely some children may experience tiredness after the test for a brief period of time which settles in few minutes. 
• There are certain situations in which we recommend not performing certain tests, such as, if your child has ecently coughed blood, has severe chest pain, had a recent pneumothorax (air leak outside the lungs), or has had recent oral, facial, eye, or sinus surgery. 
• You should consult with your care team for guidance.

The results of your child’s pulmonary function tests will be reviewed by the pulmonologist and along with clinical examination, the diagnosis can be made if your child has obstructive airway disease like asthma or restrictive disease seen in children with neuromuscular or ribcage problems.  

You can visit our website and book an appointment to get proper advise to schedule the test.