Pulmonary Function Test (PFT), also known as Spirometry, is a non-invasive breathing test that measures how well your lungs are working. It checks lung volume, capacity, airflow rates, and gas exchange to help detect and monitor respiratory conditions.
Why Choose The Elysian Healthcare?
At The Elysian Healthcare, our Pulmonary Function Test is performed by trained technicians using calibrated spirometry equipment, ensuring accurate readings and comfortable, guided breathing sessions for every patient.
Who Needs a Pulmonary Function Test?
- Individuals with chronic cough, wheezing, or breathlessness
- Patients diagnosed with or suspected of asthma, COPD, or bronchitis
- Smokers or those with occupational exposure to dust, fumes, or chemicals
- Patients being evaluated before surgery under general anaesthesia
- Individuals monitoring known lung conditions or treatment response
- People with a family history of lung disease
Types of Pulmonary Function Tests
- Spirometry: Measures how much and how quickly air can be inhaled and exhaled
- Lung Volume Test: Measures total air the lungs can hold
- Diffusion Capacity Test: Assesses how well oxygen passes from lungs into the blood
Understanding the Procedure
- You will be asked to sit comfortably and a soft clip is placed on your nose.
- You breathe into a mouthpiece connected to the spirometer machine.
- You will be guided to take a deep breath in and exhale forcefully and completely.
- The test may be repeated a few times to ensure consistent and accurate readings.
The entire test usually takes 15–30 minutes, depending on the number of measurements required.
How To Prepare for a PFT
- Avoid heavy meals for at least 2 hours before the test
- Avoid smoking for at least 4–6 hours prior to the test
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing that does not restrict deep breathing
- Inform the technician about any current medications, especially inhalers
- Avoid strenuous exercise just before the test
Safety and Comfort
- Non-invasive and painless; involves only controlled breathing efforts
- Performed under the guidance of trained respiratory technicians
- Equipment is sanitized and uses single-use mouthpieces for hygiene
- Safe for most age groups, with modified protocols for children and elderly patients
Results and Reporting
Pulmonary Function Test results include values such as FVC (Forced Vital Capacity), FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second), and the FEV1/FVC ratio, compared against predicted normal ranges based on age, height, sex, and ethnicity.
A pulmonologist or physician interprets these values to assess lung function and guide further diagnosis or treatment.
At The Elysian Healthcare, Pulmonary Function Test charges are transparent and depend on the specific test components required (spirometry, lung volumes, or diffusion capacity).
All tests are performed onsite using calibrated equipment under the supervision of trained respiratory staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Is a Pulmonary Function Test painful?
No, it is completely painless. It only requires forceful breathing efforts through a mouthpiece. -
How long does the test take?
Usually completed within 15-30 minutes, including preparation and repeat readings. -
Do I need to fast before the test?
No fasting is required, but avoid heavy meals for 2 hours before the test. -
Can smokers take this test?
Yes, but avoid smoking for at least 4-6 hours before the test for accurate results. -
Will I get results the same day?
Yes, reports are typically generated the same day and reviewed by the treating physician.