SPIROMETRY

LFTs also called Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT) are tests done to check how efficiently the air can move in and out without any resistance or obstruction.Different Types of PFT are available. The most commonly done is Spirometry.  

It is the most common test done in the clinical setting and is used in children more than 6 years old to assess how well your lungs function by measuring how much air you inhale, how much you exhale, and how quickly you can exhale.

Spirometry is used to diagnose asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other conditions that affect breathing. Spirometry may also be used periodically to monitor your lung condition and check whether a treatment for a chronic lung condition is helping you breathe better.
In children it is the most common test done for asthma.Commonly asked questions. 

This test requires the child to breathe out forcefully which may be difficult in a child who is younger than 6 years and requires some degree of coordination so it might be difficult in a younger child. 

The test has no side effects, it is a breathing test to help diagnose asthma. Your child might feel a bit tired if he already has difficulty in breathing. 

Follow your doctor's instructions about whether you should avoid inhaled breathing medications or other medications before the test. Other preparations include the following:

• Wear loose clothing that won't interfere with your ability to take a deep breath.
• Avoid eating a large meal before your test, so it will be easier to breathe

A spirometry test requires you to breathe into a tube attached to a machine called a spirometer. Before you do the test, a technician or your doctor will give you specific instructions and demonstrate how to perform the test. The general height, age, and ethnic background will be recorded.

• You will be seated during the test with your back straight.
• A clip will be placed on your nose to keep your nostrils closed.
• You will take a deep breath and breathe out as hard as you can for several seconds into the tube. It's important that your lips create a seal around the tube, so that no air leaks out.
• You'll need to do the test at least three times to make sure your results are relatively consistent. 
• If there is too much variation among the three outcomes, you may need to repeat the test again. The highest value among the three close test results is used as the final result.

Your doctor may give you an inhaled medication to open your lungs (bronchodilator) after the initial round of tests. You'll need to wait 15 minutes. Your doctor then can compare the results of the two measurements to see whether the bronchodilator improved your airflow and give you the treatment plan according to your lung condition. 

 MicroQuark COSMED is a PC-based spirometer from COSMED. Due to its lightweight and compact construction, it represents the perfect solution for performing spirometry screening everywhere, in any condition.  The device can be used with any PC, either desktop or laptop, by simply installing the software and connecting the device to an available USB port. 

Ergonomic filters with high filtration efficiency prevent cross-contamination during all tests. Ergonomic filters with high filtration efficiency prevent cross-contamination during all tests.