Pulmonary Function Testing

If you have shortness of breath, trouble breathing, a lingering cough, or other possible respiratory symptoms, your doctor may refer you for testing to figure out what’s causing your symptoms. If you are at risk for lung cancer, your doctor may also refer you for lung cancer screening.

The Pulmonary Lab at Rutland Regional Medical Center offers expert testing by board-certified pulmonologists, registered respiratory therapists, and pulmonary function technologists. The pulmonary team uses state-of-the-art testing methods to diagnose health problems.

The expert team in our Pulmonary Lab provides testing for a range of respiratory conditions including:

• Allergies
• Asthma and other chronic lung conditions
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Lung infections
• Interstitial lung disease (ILD)
• Restrictive airway problems

Pulmonary Function Tests

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT), also known as lung function tests, are used to check how well your lungs are working and to screen for disease that affects your breathing.

Types of PFTs

The Rutland Pulmonary Lab uses a variety of tests to diagnose lung conditions. The most common PFT is spirometry. A spirometry tests for airway diseases like asthma and COPD. Lung volume testing is also common, and measures how much air you have in your lungs. Your doctor will talk with you about the types of tests needed for your situation.

Asthma Tests

The methacholine challenge test is a lung function test that helps diagnose asthma. If you have potential asthma symptoms like cough, wheezing, shortness of breath or chest tightness, your doctor will first order a baseline PFT followed by a methacholine challenge test.

COPD Assessments

If you’ve been diagnosed with COPD, we will use a COPD assessment to learn about the state of your disease.

After the assessment, we’ll know what types of treatments you need including medications, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation. Depending on your situation, we’ll also provide support to help you quit smoking and prevent your COPD from getting worse.

What to Expect and How to Prepare for Lung Function Tests

First, know that these tests are not painful. You can usually return to normal activities afterward.

A pulmonary function technologist will ask you to blow out and breathe in air. You will need to repeat the test several times.

How to prepare:

• Take your normal medicines the day of your test unless your pulmonologist asks you to stop taking them.
• If you smoke, do not smoke for at least six hours before your test.
• If possible, do not use your short-acting inhaler for six to eight hours before your test.
• Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing.

Your pulmonary team will talk with you about your test results. If your test shows that you might have a lung problem, they will guide you through your next steps and care plan.