Respiratory Function Tests
We Measure Your Respiratory Health, We Listen to You!
Respiratory function tests are comprehensive tests used to evaluate your lungs and the general health of your respiratory system. As Lung and Chest Diseases Department, we aim to detect respiratory diseases early with respiratory function tests and direct them to the right treatment processes. These tests show your respiratory capacity, how much air can enter your lungs and how effectively oxygen is transferred.
What are Respiratory Function Tests?
Respiratory function tests are used to determine the presence, severity and type of any problems in the respiratory tract by making various measurements regarding the air inlet and outlet to your lungs. These tests form the basis of the diagnosis and treatment processes of lung diseases.
Respiratory function tests usually measure the following parameters:
- Forced Vital Capacity (FVC): The maximum amount of air that can be forcibly exhaled from the lungs.
- Forced Expiratory Flow (PEF): The amount of air that can be rapidly exhaled from the lungs.
- FVC (Forced Vital Capacity): The amount of air that can be completely exhaled from the lungs.
- FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume Per Second): The amount of air that can be exhaled in one second.
- FEV1/FVC ratio: A ratio that indicates the openness of the airways.
In order for these tests to be performed, patients must follow certain rules and breathe correctly while performing the tests for a certain period of time. The results give doctors information about how well their lung function is working.
Situations Where Respiratory Function Tests Are Used
- Asthma: The narrowing of the respiratory tract restricts air passage and can be determined with these tests.
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): The disease that makes it difficult for the lungs to pass air is monitored with respiratory function tests.
- Fibrous Lung Diseases: Problems such as thickening and hardening of the lung tissue can be understood with respiratory tests.
- Lung Infections: Chronic lung infections can lead to loss of function.
- Smoking: Smoking can negatively affect respiratory function and these tests are recommended for early diagnosis.
- Advanced Age: Lung function may decrease with age, these tests monitor age-related changes.
How Are Respiratory Function Tests Done?
The tests are usually performed by connecting the patient to a respirator. This device measures how much air the patient takes in and out of their lungs. The following steps are followed during the test:
1. Preparation: The patient should not eat or exercise before the test.
2. Breathing: The patient takes a deep breath using a mask or mouthpieces connected to the respirator and then exhales this air quickly and forcefully.
3. Repetitions: The test may be performed several times, as repeated measurements may be necessary for accurate results.
The tests usually take 15-30 minutes, and it is important for patients to be comfortable during the test.
The Importance of Respiratory Function Tests
These tests play a critical role in the correct diagnosis and treatment of respiratory diseases. Early diagnosis of diseases allows faster treatment to begin and increases the quality of life of patients. They are also used to monitor how much improvement has been achieved during the treatment process.
As Ento Surgical Medical Center, we monitor your health with respiratory function tests and provide you with the right guidance to prevent lung diseases. If you have concerns about your respiratory health, you can make an appointment for the necessary tests by consulting our expert doctors in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the respiratory function test painful?
No, respiratory function tests are performed painlessly. It is only necessary to breathe correctly and follow the doctor's instructions during the test.
2. Who needs a pulmonary function test?
Respiratory function tests are necessary for patients with asthma, COPD, smoking, genetic predisposition or suspected lung diseases. They can also be performed as a regular health check.
