NIHS Clinic provides comprehensive Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) services as part of our respiratory care offerings. PFTs are a group of non-invasive tests that measure how well your lungs work. These tests assess lung capacity, airflow, and the ability of the lungs to exchange gases effectively. PFTs are crucial for diagnosing and managing respiratory conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other lung disorders.

What is a Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)? A Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) encompasses several tests designed to evaluate lung function. The most common tests include spirometry, lung volume measurement, and diffusion capacity testing. PFTs help in determining how well the lungs are functioning by measuring the amount of air the lungs can hold, how quickly air can be exhaled, and how efficiently the lungs transfer oxygen into the blood.

Why is a PFT Performed? PFTs are performed to diagnose, assess, and monitor various lung conditions. The primary reasons for undergoing a PFT at NIHS Clinic include:

1. Diagnosis of Respiratory Conditions:

   • Purpose: PFTs are essential for diagnosing conditions such as asthma, COPD, interstitial lung disease, and pulmonary fibrosis.

   • Who Needs It: Patients with symptoms such as chronic cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, or a history of smoking or exposure to lung irritants.

2. Monitoring Lung Disease Progression:

   • Purpose: Regular PFTs can track the progression of lung diseases and assess the effectiveness of treatment plans.

   • Who Needs It: Individuals diagnosed with chronic lung conditions, such as COPD or asthma, who require ongoing monitoring to manage their disease.

3. Pre-Surgical Assessment:

   • Purpose: PFTs are often part of the pre-operative evaluation, especially for patients undergoing surgeries that could impact lung function.

   • Who Needs It: Patients scheduled for major surgery, particularly those with existing respiratory conditions or those undergoing procedures near the lungs or chest.

4. Evaluation of Occupational Lung Diseases:

   • Purpose: PFTs help diagnose and monitor lung conditions related to occupational hazards, such as exposure to dust, chemicals, or other airborne irritants.

   • Who Needs It: Workers in industries with high exposure to lung irritants, such as mining, construction, or manufacturing.

5. Assessment of Treatment Effectiveness:

   • Purpose: PFTs can evaluate the effectiveness of medications or other treatments for lung diseases by measuring improvements or changes in lung function.

   • Who Needs It: Patients undergoing treatment for lung conditions who need to assess how well their treatment plan is working.

Types of PFTs Offered at NIHS Clinic:

1. Spirometry:

   • Purpose: Measures the amount of air you can inhale and exhale, as well as how quickly you can exhale.

   • Uses: Diagnoses conditions like asthma and COPD, and monitors lung function over time.

   • Procedure: The patient breathes into a mouthpiece connected to a spirometer, which records the airflow and volume of air during inhalation and exhalation.

2. Lung Volume Measurement:

   • Purpose: Determines the total volume of air the lungs can hold (total lung capacity) and the amount of air left in the lungs after exhaling completely (residual volume).

   • Uses: Useful for diagnosing restrictive lung diseases, where the lungs cannot expand fully.

   • Procedure: Can be performed using a plethysmograph, where the patient sits inside an airtight booth and breathes into a mouthpiece, or through a gas dilution technique.

3. Diffusion Capacity Test (DLCO):

   • Purpose: Measures how well oxygen passes from the lungs into the blood.

   • Uses: Diagnoses conditions affecting the alveoli (tiny air sacs in the lungs), such as pulmonary fibrosis or emphysema.

   • Procedure: The patient breathes in a harmless gas mixture, and the amount exhaled is measured to determine how well the gases are being absorbed into the bloodstream.

4. Bronchial Provocation Test:

   • Purpose: Assesses airway sensitivity by measuring lung function before and after exposure to a specific substance or exercise.

   • Uses: Diagnoses asthma or other conditions that cause airway hyperreactivity.

   • Procedure: The patient inhales a substance that can cause mild airway constriction or exercises on a treadmill, followed by spirometry tests to measure any changes in lung function.

5. Exercise Stress Test:

   • Purpose: Evaluates lung function under physical stress to determine how exercise affects breathing.

   • Uses: Identifies exercise-induced asthma and assesses lung function in athletes or patients with unexplained shortness of breath.

   • Procedure: The patient performs physical activity, such as walking on a treadmill or cycling, while lung function is continuously monitored.

Preparation for PFT:

• General Preparation:

  • Avoid Smoking: Patients should avoid smoking for at least 4-6 hours before the test, as smoking can affect lung function results.

  • Medication Guidance: Certain medications, particularly bronchodilators, may need to be paused before the test. Patients should follow their doctor’s instructions regarding any medications they are taking.

  • Dietary Restrictions: Patients should avoid eating a large meal before the test, as a full stomach can restrict lung capacity. It is also advised to avoid caffeine on the day of the test, as it can affect breathing.

  • Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing that does not restrict breathing. Avoid tight-fitting garments around the chest and abdomen.

Procedure Details:

• Process:

  • Initial Assessment: The respiratory therapist or technician will review your medical history and explain the test procedure. Your height and weight will be measured, as these factors are essential for interpreting PFT results.

  • Performing the Test: Depending on the type of PFT, the patient will be asked to breathe in various ways—deeply, quickly, or forcefully—into a mouthpiece connected to the testing equipment. Each test may be repeated several times to ensure consistent results.

  • Duration: A standard PFT session typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the number and type of tests being conducted.

Safety and Risks:

• Safety: PFTs are safe and non-invasive with minimal risks. The tests do not involve radiation or invasive procedures, making them suitable for patients of all ages, including children and pregnant women.

• Risks: Most patients do not experience any significant side effects. However, some individuals might feel lightheaded, short of breath, or tired during or after the test. These symptoms are usually temporary and resolve quickly.

Post-Procedure:

• Recovery: There is no recovery time needed after a PFT. Patients can resume their normal activities immediately. However, those who felt lightheaded or short of breath during the test should rest for a few minutes until they feel better.

• Results: The results of the PFT are typically reviewed by a pulmonologist or respiratory specialist, who will interpret the findings and discuss them with the patient. Based on the results, the doctor may recommend further tests, adjustments to treatment plans, or lifestyle changes.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Lung Assessment: PFTs provide detailed information about lung function, helping in the early detection and management of respiratory conditions.

• Non-Invasive and Safe: The tests are non-invasive, safe, and suitable for repeated use, making them ideal for ongoing monitoring of chronic lung conditions.

• Personalized Treatment Plans: PFTs help doctors tailor treatment plans to the individual needs of the patient, ensuring better management of respiratory health.

• Early Detection: Regular PFTs can detect lung problems early, even before symptoms become apparent, allowing for timely intervention.

Advanced Technology and Expertise: At NIHS Clinic, our PFT services are conducted using state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring precise measurements and accurate results. Our team of experienced pulmonologists and respiratory therapists is dedicated to providing thorough, compassionate care, helping you understand and manage your lung health effectively.

For a thorough evaluation of your lung health, trust the Pulmonary Function Test services at NIHS Clinic. Contact us today to schedule your PFT or to learn more about our comprehensive respiratory care services.