Pulmonary Function Tests
Pulmonary Function Tests
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) are a group of tests that measure how well your lungs work. This includes how well you're able to breathe and how effective your lungs are able to bring oxygen to the rest of your body.
Pronunciation
Pulmonary: /pʌlˈmɛnəri/ Function: /ˈfʌŋkʃən/ Tests: /tɛsts/
Etymology
The term "Pulmonary" originates from the Latin word "pulmonarius", meaning "of the lungs". "Function" comes from the Latin "functio", meaning "performance, execution". The term "Test" is derived from the Old French "test", meaning "small vessel".
Related Terms
- Spirometry: This is the most common type of pulmonary function test. It measures how much and how quickly you can move air out of your lungs.
- Lung volume: These tests measure the size of your lungs, how much air they can hold, and how much air remains in your lungs after you exhale as much as you can.
- Diffusion capacity: This test measures how well the lungs exchange gases. This is an important part of the breathing process.
- Plethysmography: This test measures lung volume and airway resistance and can help detect certain lung conditions.
- Bronchial challenge test: This test measures the sensitivity of your airways.
Procedure
Pulmonary function tests are usually performed in a hospital or clinic that specializes in lung disorders. A respiratory therapist or technician carries out the test. The patient is asked to breathe into a mouthpiece attached to a machine called a spirometer. The spirometer records the amount and the rate of air that the patient breathes in and out over a certain period of time.
Interpretation
The results of pulmonary function tests can help diagnose various lung disorders such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. The doctor compares the results of the patient's pulmonary function tests with a normal average for the patient's age, height, sex, and race.
Risks
Pulmonary function tests are generally safe. Some people may feel short of breath or dizzy during the tests.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pulmonary Function Tests
- Wikipedia's article - Pulmonary Function Tests
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