Pulmonary Function Tests What is pulmonary function testing?
Pulmonary function testing is sometimes called “PFT” or
“breathing tests.” This series of tests measures several things.
It determines the amount of air in your lungs, the amount of air
you can inhale into your lungs, and the amount of air you can
exhale from your lungs. PFTs measure how much air moves in and
out of the lungs. They also measure how fast the air moves in
and out. Why was a PFT ordered? PFTs are ordered for many
different reasons. Some reasons are: - As part of a routine
physical exam, especially if you smoke or have a history of
smoking - As part of a work physical, if the worker must wear a
mask or respirator to perform the job - To test your lung
function before surgery - To help diagnose lung conditions or
diseases such as asthma, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or
pulmonary fibrosis - To check the extent of lung disease or to
help explain new breathing symptoms - To find out if your
breathing medicine is working - To check if you