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Full Pulmonary Function Testing

A full pulmonary function test consists of a series of testing maneuvers that evaluates how well you can move air in and out of your lungs, your lung capacity, and how well oxygen and carbon dioxide moves in and out of your blood stream.

With the clinician’s assistance and coaching, the maneuvers take about 45 minutes to complete.

Testing is available for children ages 7 years or greater.

Spirometry

Spirometry is a breathing maneuver that evaluates how well you can move air in and out of your lungs. With the clinician’s assistance and coaching, the maneuvers take about 20 to 30 minutes to complete. This time period includes a waiting period to evaluate the effectiveness of medications.

Testing is available for children ages 7 years or greater.

Pre-Test Instructions

Prior to attending any lung function test you should avoid taking (if possible):

Short-acting bronchodilators (e.g. Berotec Ventolin, Atrovent, Airomir, Symbicort) for at least 4 hours prior to the start of your test. Long-acting bronchodilators (e.g. Serevent, Oxeze, Advair or Symbicort.) for at least 12 hours prior to the start of your test.

**You can continue to take all other prescribed medication including anti-inflammatory medications such as Beclovent, Qvar, Vanceril, Bronalide, Pulmicort, Prednisone and Flovent.**