What Is PFT Test?
A pulmonary function test, or a PFT, is used to determine how well your lungs exchange air. The test will review how much air is entering your lungs and leaving your lungs and how much air goes from your lungs to your bloodstream. Your doctor may also use a PFT to determine how well your lungs function during exercise or strenuous activities. There are several different types of lung function tests that you may have to take. These include the following:
- Cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET): The CPET measures how well your muscles, lungs, and heart function while you are exercising.
- Gas diffusion study: This test is used to measure how much oxygen and other gases are able to transfer from your lungs to your blood.
- Lung volumes/body plethysmography: This test is used to measure various amounts of air in your lungs at various points during the process of inhaling and exhaling.
- Spirometry: This test is used to measure how much air you take in while inhaling and how much you release when you exhale. It can also estimate the volume of air in your lungs.
Who Needs a Pulmonary Function Test?
Pulmonary function tests are done to detect some lung or respiratory system diseases and conditions. Some of these include a narrowing in the airways, lung cancer, and changes in the way your lungs move oxygen to your blood. These tests are also used to determine how effective treatments are for asthma and other respiratory conditions or to show if your lungs have been damaged by environmental substances.
The specific symptoms that you are experiencing will often determine the type of test you are prescribed to take. Your doctor will analyze the results to determine whether further testing is necessary.
Why Might Your Doctor Order a Pulmonary Function Test?
Your doctor may have you take a pulmonary function test if you are showing certain signs and symptoms associated with lung cancer, emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or other lung conditions. Some of these symptoms include frequent or chronic coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughs that produce phlegm, and trouble breathing.
Can a Pulmonary Function Test Detect Lung Cancer?
Many people wonder, “Can a lung function test detect cancer?” A pulmonary function test can be performed to determine various types of lung and respiratory system conditions and diseases, including lung cancer. The test helps detect changes in your lung function caused by this specific disease.
Can a Spirometry Test Detect Lung Cancer?
A spirometry test can be used to identify if patients are at risk for lung cancer. In addition, it can help to determine if they are at risk for suffering a stroke or a heart attack. It is important to note that abnormal test results do not automatically mean that you have lung cancer. Abnormal results may indicate that you have a condition that affects your breathing. It could be COPD, asthma, or another condition. It is best to discuss your results with your doctor as soon as possible.
Can Blood Test Detect Breathing Problems?
Although gas diffusion studies can determine the amount of oxygen in the blood, a blood test can also be used to detect breathing problems. A blood test can be used to measure the blood pH levels and the levels of both oxygen and carbon dioxide.
What Should You Expect During Your Test?
How you prepare for your test and what to expect while you have it depends on the type of test you’re having. There are many different types of pulmonary function tests, such as spirometry, lung volume tests, oximetry with ambulation, respiratory muscle strength tests, and arterial blood gas tests. Spirometry tests are among the more common types of pulmonary function tests that are done. With this type of test, you can expect to exhale with force and inhale into a special tube that connects to a spirometer machine. This machine measures how much air you exhale and inhale for about 30 minutes overall.
What Happens if You Fail a Pulmonary Function Test?
It is not possible to fail a pulmonary function test. Instead, your test may show either normal or abnormal results. If your test results are abnormal, your doctor will discuss the results with you and determine whether further testing is required to make a diagnosis. In some cases, your doctor may start a treatment plan to help improve the function of your lungs.
What Do Pulmonary Function Test Results Mean?
The results of your pulmonary function test can help your doctor determine if you have lung cancer or other lung diseases. Abnormal results for these tests vary from patient to patient based on different factors, such as age and gender. Your doctor will compare your results to average results for people who are similar to you in age and other factors. Overall, results that are less than 80% of this value are considered abnormal. Your doctor may have you undergo additional tests to diagnose lung cancer. If you already have lung cancer, you might have a pulmonary function test done to determine the best course of treatment for it.
Schedule a Pulmonary Function Test Today
If you need a pulmonary function test, MXBowen, Physician, PC is here to help. Our New York City pulmonologist, Dr. Marc Bowen, can meet with you to determine whether you are suffering from any condition affecting your lungs or breathing. Dr. Bowen will answer all of your questions in a professional and compassionate manner. He will ensure you understand your results and implement a care plan as soon as possible to address any conditions or illnesses that you may be suffering from. Contact our office today at (212) 480-4062 to schedule an appointment.
