What is pulmonary function testing?
Pulmonary function testing is a way to assess respiratory symptoms and evaluate lung function. As a facility that’s accredited by the College of American Pathologists, Florida Lung & Sleep Associates offers pulmonary function testing as part of the diagnostic process. Our team uses the most specialized state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and procedures.
Some of the different pulmonary function tests you may need are:
- Spirometry - checks air flow
- Lung volume tests - checks the quantity of air your lungs hold
- Diffusion capacity - checks how efficiently oxygen enters your blood
- Pulse oximetry - measures blood oxygenation
- Arterial blood gas test - measures blood oxygen, carbon dioxide, and blood pH
- Exercise testing - monitors bodily functions while exercising
You may need several different tests to gather all the data necessary for diagnosis.
What symptoms call for pulmonary function testing?
Our medical care providers at Florida Lung & Sleep Associates may recommend pulmonary function testing if you're having respiratory symptoms, such as:
- Coughing
- Hemoptysis - coughing up blood
- Coughing up phlegm frequently
- Difficulty breathing when lying down
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
Sometimes, you may have no symptoms but have possible indicators of a condition such as pleural effusion (water on the lungs) on X-ray. In this situation, your medical care providers may use pulmonary function testing to gain a clear picture of your disease and plan appropriate treatment.
What treatments will I need after pulmonary function testing?
After your provider pinpoints the problem behind your respiratory issues, they can create a treatment plan for your individual needs. Treatments can range from conservative care to more aggressive approaches based on your symptoms and the stage of your disease.
Common treatments include:
- Antibiotics
- Rescue bronchodilator for flare-ups
- Maintenance inhalers for daily use
- Oral medication for flare-ups
- Oral medication for daily use
- Supplemental oxygen
- Breathing exercises
- Smoking cessation program
Our team does oxygen qualification testing to ascertain if you’re a candidate for supplemental oxygen.
Our pulmonary disease specialists understand the challenges of COPD, asthma, lung cancer, and other pulmonary diseases. They’re here to help you reclaim a comfortable lifestyle and improve your health to the maximum extent possible.
Click the online scheduling tool or call Florida Lung & Sleep Associates to make an appointment now.
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