Pulmonary Function Tests And How Well Your Lungs Are Working

At the office of North Jersey Pulmonary Associates, we treat all forms of lung diseases and customize care to address each patient's individual needs. Whether you or a loved one is suffering from asthma, pneumonia, emphysema,  pulmonary hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sleep apnea, or other conditions affecting respiratory health, you can count on our office for the highest level of skilled and compassionate care. 

Testing pulmonary function 

The diagnosis, management, and treatment of respiratory conditions typically require an assessment of how well a person's lungs are functioning. To help determine how effectively air is moving in and out of your lungs and how efficiently oxygen is entering your bloodstream, we perform tests known as pulmonary function tests or PFTs. These valuable, non-invasive tests also help us evaluate the severity of your condition, its progression, and whether treatment improves lung function. 

Why you may need a PFT

If you're suffering an existing lung condition or experiencing shortness of breath, a persistent cough, abnormal breathing sounds, a phlegmy cough, or abnormal x-ray findings, it's time to contact our office. We provide the skilled and experienced care required to "clear the air," diagnose any problems affecting lung and function, relieve your symptoms, and chart a path to improved wellness.

In some cases, a pulmonary function test is performed as part of a routine physical or to check on employees' health in work environments involving exposure to certain substances that can affect respiratory wellness. However, more often than not, we recommend a PFT if you're diagnosed with, or we suspect you have, one of the following problems:

• Respiratory Infections
• Chronic Lung Conditions such as asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis 
• Allergies
• Systemic diseases that affect the tissues in and around the lungs 
• Restrictive airway issues due to problems such as scarring, inflammation, or scoliosis
• Asbestosis
• Difficulty breathing due to injury or following a surgical procedure
• Lung cancer

Different pulmonary function tests assess different aspects of lung function and how well your lungs are moving oxygen to your blood. Based on your health history, existing respiratory conditions, and symptoms, our office will determine the appropriate testing. Spirometry, which involves blowing into a handheld device, is one of the most commonly performed assessments. This test measures the amount of air you inhale and exhale when you breathe. We may also recommend other tests such as the bronchial challenge test or the reversibility test.

Your results not only help our office detect the presence of certain lung problems but also provide information on the severity, progression, and your response to care. Furthermore, the obtained data enables us to decide if any additional testing is needed and allows us to develop a customized treatment plan.

Skilled and experienced care you can trust

At North Jersey Pulmonary Associates, you can rest assured your care is in the best of hands. We're dedicated to providing the highest quality of care, helping our patients breathe easier and enjoy better health.