A Pulmonary Function Test is a group of non-invasive breathing tests that measure:

• Lung capacity (how much air your lungs can hold)
• Airflow (how quickly you can move air in and out)
• Gas exchange efficiency (how well oxygen enters and carbon dioxide leaves your blood)

Doctors often recommend PFTs for diagnosing and monitoring asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and other lung conditions.

PFT is not just for people with breathing problems—it can also help:

• Detect early signs of lung disease before symptoms worsen
• Assess lung health before surgery
• Monitor the effectiveness of treatment for chronic respiratory conditions
• Evaluate occupational exposure to dust, chemicals, or smoke

📊 According to the American Lung Association, over 34 million Americans live with chronic lung disease, and PFTs play a vital role in early diagnosis.

1. Spirometry

• Measures how much air you inhale and exhale.
• Commonly used for asthma and COPD diagnosis.

2. Lung Volume Test

• Assesses the total amount of air your lungs can hold.
• Helps detect restrictive lung diseases.

3. Diffusion Capacity Test

• Measures how efficiently oxygen moves from your lungs into your blood.
• Important for detecting conditions like pulmonary fibrosis.

4. Plethysmography

• A more advanced test to measure lung volumes.
• Often used when standard spirometry is not enough.

To get accurate results, follow these tips:

• 🚭 Avoid smoking for at least 4–6 hours before the test.
• 🚫 Skip heavy meals that may make breathing difficult.
• 💊 Check with your doctor about pausing inhalers or medications.
• 👕 Wear comfortable clothing to allow free breathing.