Pulmonary Function Testing

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) are breathing tests that can measure airflow in and out of lungs, lung volume or capacity, and lung’s ability to move oxygen into the blood. These tests are performed to see how your lungs and airways function.

Pulmonary function tests help your health care provider to:

Evaluate your breathing
Make a diagnosis
Recommend treatment
Follow your progress

Your doctor may also schedule you for a Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FENO) test. This test will provide valuable information about airway wall inflammation.

What Is A Bronchoprovocation Test?

A Bronchoprovocation Test helps to determine if you have reactive airways seen in conditions such as asthma. During the test, you will inhale a nebulized solution to see if you develop symptoms of asthma or airflow obstruction.

The most used bronchoprovocation test is the Methacholine Challenge Test.

UR Medicine's Approach

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs)

Our staff will guide you with clear instructions during pulmonary function tests and encourage you to give your best effort. Please avoid smoking or eating a heavy meal before your scheduled breathing test. Our office will provide specific guidance if any inhaler medications need to be held prior to the test. Please feel free to ask questions before, during or after your test.

Bronchoprovocation Testing

The test takes about one hour to complete. Please be sure to bring a list of your current medications with you to your appointment. The following medications may interfere with your test results. Therefore, it is important that you stop taking them prior to your test for the amount of time recommended next to each medication.

What Sets Us Apart?

The Mary Parkes Center for Asthma, Allergy & Pulmonary Care provides comprehensive
multidisciplinary care for adult patients with asthma, allergies, and all lung diseases. Our Center
is staffed by pulmonologists, severe asthma specialists and allergists. Our expert inter-
professional team of physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses and respiratory therapists work
closely to ensure the best care for our patients.