What are breathing tests?

Breathing tests have a multitude of different names (and name combinations) which can easily lead to confusion. The most common names used are:

• Lung Function Tests (LFTs)
• Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs)
• Spirometry or Flow-Volume Loop test
• Reversibility test
• Peak Flow measurement

Whilst these tests can mean different types of test being performed, they all involve breathing into a piece of equipment to take a measurement of the air as you perform the manoeuvre and then compare it to standard ‘normal’ result. This can be done for many reasons, including:

• To assess how well we breath in and out
• To see if our lungs are working correctly
• Measure the lungs ability to transfer oxygen into our blood stream and remove harmful gases, such as carbon dioxide
• Assess how medications might help with our breathing
• To assess how well our bodies will cope if we must have a general anaesthetic for a major operation

These breathing tests may be just one manoeuvre that you repeatedly perform several times, or a combination of 4-6 different manoeuvres that you must perform several times each. This really depends on the reason you are having the tests and should be given all the information you need when you receive your appointment (including the expected time it may take to complete these tests). The letter may contain some pre-test instructions you may be asked to comply with as they can affect the tests. Results. These may include:

• Bringing an up-to-date list of medications you are currently taking
• Bringing your inhalers with you so that your inhaler technique can be assessed and amended (if necessary)
• Not to wear tight clothing for your appointment as this constricts your lungs.
• Not to smoke for at least 1 hour before your appointment
• Not to take vigorous exercise, 30 minutes before your appointment

There are also some circumstances where the tests should not be performed and you may be asked to contact the department prior to your appointment in case you experience them. These may include:

• Heart attack within the last month
• Any recent surgery to the stomach, chest or eye
• Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
• Current or recent chest infection (within the last 2 weeks)
• Chest pain on the day of your test

More information can be found on the British Lung Foundation website