Pulmonary Function Testing

What is Pulmonary Function Testing?

Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT) is a group of non-invasive tests that measure how well your lungs are working. These tests assess lung volume, capacity, rates of flow, and gas exchange. PFTs are essential tools in diagnosing and monitoring a variety of lung conditions and can help your doctor determine the best course of treatment.

Types of Tests

• Spirometry — Measures how much air you can inhale and exhale, and how quickly you can exhale
• Lung Volume Testing — Measures the total amount of air your lungs can hold
• Diffusion Capacity (DLCO) — Measures how well oxygen passes from your lungs into your bloodstream
• Peak Flow Monitoring — Measures the maximum speed of exhalation, particularly useful for asthma management

Why You May Need PFT

Your doctor may recommend pulmonary function testing if you have symptoms such as shortness of breath, chronic cough, or wheezing. PFTs are also used to evaluate how lung diseases like asthma, COPD, or pulmonary fibrosis are progressing, assess the effectiveness of treatment, evaluate lung function before surgery, and screen for occupational lung disease.

What to Expect

The tests are performed in our office and usually take 30 to 45 minutes. You will be asked to breathe into a mouthpiece connected to a machine called a spirometer. You may be asked to breathe normally, take deep breaths, or breathe rapidly. The tests are painless and generally well-tolerated. Dr. Singh will review the results with you and explain what they mean for your health.