DMV Allergy & Asthma Center – Allergist Washington DC & Alexandria

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Pulmonary Function Testing

Pulmonary Function Testing in Alexandria, VA & Washington, DC

Pulmonary Function Testing For Healthy Lungs

DMV Allergy & Asthma Center offers comprehensive pulmonary function testing conducted by Dr. Pavan Nataraj, MD, and our experienced team. Our state-of-the-art equipment and personalized approach ensure accurate diagnosis and effective management of lung conditions. Whether you’re experiencing shortness of breath, chronic cough, or other respiratory symptoms, our pulmonary function tests can help identify the underlying cause and develop a tailored treatment plan. Trust DMV Allergy & Asthma Center for your lung health. Schedule Your Pulmonary Function Test Today
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FAQs on Lung Function Testing:

Lung function testing also called pulmonary function testing (PFT) is a group of tests that are performed to see how well your lungs work and function. The test measures how much air you take in (inhale), how much air you blow out (exhale), how well your lungs deliver oxygen and the strength of your breathing muscles. The lung function test can diagnose various lung diseases including asthma, COPD and pulmonary fibrosis. The test may also be used to determine how well treatments and medicines are working to treat lung diseases. Doctors suggest the test when the patient is having symptoms of lung and breathing problems.
The lung function test may be ordered to diagnose the following lung and breathing conditions:
  • asthma
  • allergies
  • chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • lung fibrosis
  • respiratory infections
  • chronic bronchitis
  • emphysema
  • lung cancer/tumor
Before the procedure, your doctor may ask you to stop taking your medications including asthma medications and over the counter pain medications. Avoid food and drinks that have caffeine such as coffee, tea and chocolate. Do not smoke before the test.
A lung function test usually starts with a spirometry, a test to measure the air you inhale and exhale. This test involves a machine that you breath into through a mouthpiece. The doctor may ask you to breathe normally or to breathe deeply or rapidly for several seconds. Sometimes medication is given to see how well your breathing improves after your airways are opened up. Next, you may partake in a plethysmography test, a test that measures the volume of gas in your lungs. The doctor will then share your results with you and send you home.
Lung function testing is normally a safe procedure. However, the following complications can occur:
  • lightheadedness during the testing
  • fainting
  • asthma attack
  • collapsed lung