Pulmonary function test or PFT test in Guntur is a procedure wherein the patient exchange air in order to understand and measure the working condition of the lungs. The patient has to both inhale and exhale air to demonstrate the optimal working of the human lung in absorbing the oxygen into the blood stream of the patient. It is usually done under expert supervision of Best pulmonology doctors in Guntur like Dr. A. Balasree Sowmya.
The Lung function tests encompasses
- Spirometry - a tool to measure the amount of air a person can take in or exhale. Also, it is also to check how much air and for how long the lungs can hold the air
- Lung volumes or body plethysmography - this is to measure the varying amounts of air that is in the lungs after different points of air inhalation and exhalation
- Gas diffusion study - this measures the amount of oxygen and other gases which are transferred from the lungs to your blood stream
- Cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) - this test checks how well the heart, lungs and muscles operate while the human body is exercising
These tests are done by a respiratory therapist specially trained to perform pulmonary function testing. The test includes a clear, a mouthpiece, airtight box, soft nose clips, and a small electronic machine that evaluates the flow of air (spirometer).
It is important for the patients to know that the patient should not indulge in a heavy meal before the PFT as well as avoid any caffeine to avoid complications or wrong readings. The medical practitioner will also provide instructions on how the test is performed.