Welcome
“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT) are a group of non-invasive tests that evaluate how well the lungs are functioning. These tests measure various aspects of lung function, including the amount of air a person can inhale and exhale, how quickly air moves in and out of the lungs, and how efficiently oxygen is transferred into the bloodstream.
There are several different types of PFTs, including spirometry, lung volume measurements, and gas diffusion tests. During a spirometry test, the patient is asked to take a deep breath and then exhale as forcefully and completely as possible into a mouthpiece attached to a spirometer, which measures the amount of air and the speed at which it is exhaled. Lung volume measurements use a different type of machine to measure the total amount of air in the lungs and how much of that air can be expelled. Gas diffusion tests measure how well oxygen is transferred from the lungs into the bloodstream.
PFTs are used to diagnose and monitor a wide range of respiratory conditions, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and interstitial lung disease. They can also be used to evaluate lung function before and after lung surgery, and to assess the effectiveness of treatments such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids.
PFTs are generally safe and non-invasive, although some people may experience temporary dizziness or lightheadedness during the tests. Patients may be asked to refrain from using certain medications or to avoid smoking or strenuous exercise before the tests to ensure the most accurate results. It is important for patients to discuss any concerns or questions with their healthcare provider before undergoing PFTs.