More than 25 million Americans suffer from asthma, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). When left untreated, asthma can be a life-threatening condition. With offices in Southlake and the Alliance area of Fort Worth, Texas, Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates can perform lung function testing to measure your breathing and help determine whether you have asthma. For more information, call the team at Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates or book a visit online today.
A lung function test, or pulmonary function test, is used to determine how well your lungs are working. It can measure how much air your lungs can hold and how forcefully you’re emptying air from your lungs.
The preferred method for diagnosing asthma, a spirometry involves breathing into a mouthpiece that’s connected to another device called a spirometer. During the test, you’ll breathe in deeply and exhale forcefully while the spirometer measures how much air you’re breathing in and the rate of its flow.
You may need a lung function test if you’re showing signs of asthma or another respiratory condition. The most common asthma symptoms are:
Most people with asthma experience worsening symptoms if they have a respiratory virus, such as the cold, flu, bronchitis, or pneumonia. Your symptoms can also worsen when you exercise, especially if the air is dry and cold.
Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates will give you instructions on how to prepare for your test before your visit. In general, though, you should:
A lung function test may be your first step in finding relief from constant coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness. To learn more, call Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates or book a visit online today.
