While not every person with asthma needs nitrous oxide monitoring, the test results can quickly provide an indication of inflammation in the lungs and allow for a more precise treatment to minimize asthma symptoms. This non-invasive breathing test, also called a FeNO test, can be performed in office and results are available immediately.
WHAT IS FeNO and How Is the FeNO Test Performed?
FeNO stands for fractional exhaled nitric oxide. Your exhaled breath can help show how much inflammation you have in your lungs by measuring the amount of nitric oxide in your breath. The test is very simple – you simply blow into a handheld device in Dr. Bowen’s office and he will be able to read the results and discuss them with you right away.
Benefits of Nitric Oxide Monitoring for Asthma
Because other conditions can present similar symptoms to asthma, like COPD and chronic cough, the nitrous oxide monitoring test can help Dr. Bowen quickly determine if asthma is the underlying condition causing your breathing problems and get an appropriate treatment for you as quickly as possible. The test detects the level of nitrous oxide in your exhaled breath, and that measurement can be used to determine the severity of your inflammation. If you have a child who does not have other symptoms and cannot get an appropriate diagnosis for school to address activities, this test can help definitively determine that asthma is the cause of the breathing issues. If you’ve already been diagnosed with asthma, a FeNO test can help determine how well your treatment is working so that Dr. Bowen can make adjustments to your medication as needed.
Dr. Marc Bowen is a NYC pulmonologist and asthma specialist with over three decades of experience specializing in pulmonary medicine. We are dedicated to providing a personalized and convenient patient experience, offering the latest diagnostic tests and in-office procedures to help you return to your active lifestyle. If you believe that you may benefit from a FeNO test, schedule an appointment with Dr. Bowen or call 212-480-4062 for an evaluation. Appointments will be confirmed by office staff.
