Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) / Spirometry
A quick, non-invasive lung function test that measures how well your lungs work by analyzing the volume and speed of breathing.
Book PFT TestWhat is Spirometry?
Spirometry is a Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) used to measure how effectively your lungs inhale and exhale air. During the test, patients breathe into a mouthpiece connected to a machine that records airflow and lung capacity.
The test usually takes about 15–30 minutes and helps diagnose lung conditions such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
What the Test Measures
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC)
The maximum amount of air you can exhale forcefully after taking a deep breath.
Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV1)
The volume of air exhaled during the first second of the test.
Tidal Volume (VT)
The amount of air moved in and out of the lungs during normal breathing.
How the Spirometry Test is Performed
A technician places a small nose clip to ensure that all breathing occurs through the mouth. The patient then breathes into a mouthpiece connected to a spirometry machine.
You will be asked to take a deep breath and blow out as hard, fast, and long as possible. The test is usually repeated several times to ensure accurate results.
The recorded measurements help doctors evaluate lung capacity and detect breathing problems.
Preparation for the Test
Patients may be advised to avoid smoking, heavy meals, or strenuous exercise for 30 to 60 minutes before the test.
Loose clothing is recommended to allow comfortable breathing. In some cases, your doctor may advise temporarily stopping certain inhaled medications before the test.
Why Spirometry is Done
Diagnose Lung Conditions
Helps detect asthma, COPD, bronchitis, and emphysema.
Monitor Lung Health
Tracks disease progression and response to treatment.
Pre-Surgical Evaluation
Checks lung function before certain surgeries.
Assess Treatment Effectiveness
Helps doctors evaluate whether medications or therapies are working.
Safety and Risks
Spirometry is generally very safe. Some patients may experience temporary dizziness, coughing, or lightheadedness due to repeated deep breathing. These effects usually disappear quickly after the test.
Check Your Lung Health Today
Early diagnosis of lung conditions helps improve treatment outcomes and breathing quality.
Pulse Medicare Centre
C1/15, Yamuna Vihar, Delhi – 110053
Phone: 9911225514 | 9911225510
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