Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT)
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) are a group of non-invasive tests that measure how well your lungs work. They are essential for diagnosing respiratory diseases, assessing their severity, and monitoring your response to treatment.
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Understanding PFTs
PFTs measure lung volume, capacity, rates of flow, and gas exchange. The most common test is spirometry, which measures how much air you can breathe in and out, and how fast you can blow it out.
Other tests may include plethysmography (to measure the total volume of air your lungs can hold) and diffusion capacity tests (to see how well oxygen moves from your lungs into your blood).
Why PFTs are Performed
Your doctor may recommend PFTs to:
- Diagnose conditions like asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema.
- Determine the cause of shortness of breath.
- Assess the effects of toxic substances on lung function.
- Monitor the progression of chronic lung diseases over time.
- Check lung function before surgery to ensure you can tolerate anesthesia.
What to Expect During the Test
During spirometry, you will sit in a chair and wear a soft nose clip. You will be asked to take a deep breath and exhale as hard and fast as you can into a tube connected to a machine.
The test requires your active participation and effort. You may be given an inhaled medication (a bronchodilator) during the test to see if it improves your lung function. The entire process takes about 30 to 45 minutes and is completely painless.
Consult Dr. Feby Sadek for Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT)
Dr. Feby Sadek has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating chest conditions using the latest medical technologies. Book your consultation today to evaluate your condition and formulate the most suitable treatment plan.
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