Evaluating How Well Your Lungs Are Working
Pulmonary Function Test
Pulmonary Function Test
At Caceres Medical Group, we provide pulmonary function testing, commonly called
a PFT, to help evaluate breathing problems and lung function. This test measures how
well your lungs move air in and out and how effectively you are able to breathe.
Pulmonary function testing can provide important information for patients with shortness
of breath, chronic cough, wheezing, asthma, COPD, smoking history, or unexplained
fatigue with activity.
What Is a Pulmonary Function Test?
A pulmonary function test is a non-invasive breathing test that measures lung capacity,
airflow, and breathing patterns. One of the most common parts of a PFT is called
spirometry, which measures how much air you can breathe out and how quickly you
can exhale.
The test can help identify whether breathing difficulty may be related to airway
narrowing, lung disease, poor lung capacity, or other respiratory conditions.
How Is the Test Done?
Pulmonary function testing is performed in our office and is generally painless.
During the test:
- You will sit comfortably.
- A soft nose clip may be placed to prevent air from escaping through the nose.
- You will breathe into a mouthpiece connected to the testing machine.
- You may be asked to take a deep breath and blow out as hard and as long as possible.
- The test may be repeated several times to obtain accurate results.
In some cases, breathing may be measured before and after using an inhaled
medication.
The staff will coach you through each step. Your effort is important because the quality
of the test depends on following instructions carefully.
Common Indications for PFT
Pulmonary function testing may be medically appropriate for patients with:
- Unexplained shortness of breath
- Chronic cough lasting several weeks
- Recurrent wheezing
- Suspected asthma
- Known asthma with worsening symptoms
- Suspected COPD
- History of smoking
- Emphysema or chronic bronchitis
- Abnormal chest X-ray findings
- Reduced exercise tolerance due to breathing symptoms
- Evaluation before selected surgeries
- Assessment of medication response
Benefits of In-Office Pulmonary Function Testing
Having PFT available in our office allows for:
- Convenient breathing evaluation
- Objective measurement of lung function
- Better understanding of shortness of breath
- Early detection of airway disease
- Monitoring of asthma or COPD
- Guidance for inhaler therapy
- Better coordination with your medical visit
- Improved care for adults and seniors with respiratory symptoms
If additional evaluation is needed, your physician may recommend chest X-ray, CT
scan, oxygen testing, sleep study, laboratory testing, pulmonary referral, or cardiac
evaluation when symptoms may also be heart related.
Trusted Adult and Senior Medical Care Since 1993
- For more than 33 years, Caceres Medical Group has served adults and seniors patients with compassionate, comprehensive medical care.
- We provide many in- office diagnostic services and health care to adults and seniors under one roof.
- Coordination with medical and surgical specialists when needed.
- Experience and convenience care with fewer trips and more personal care.
Caceres Medical Group
Schedule an Appointment
For evaluation of shortness of breath, chronic cough, wheezing, asthma, COPD, or
other breathing concerns, please contact Caceres Medical Group.
Call Us Now
(714) 821-8588