Understanding the Basics of Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs)

Authored by Henderson Pulmonology

Breathing is something most of us take for granted—until it becomes difficult. If you have been experiencing shortness of breath, persistent coughing, or other signs of lung problems, your doctor may recommend a pulmonary function test (PFT). This test provides valuable insights into how well your lungs are working, and it is one of the most common diagnostic tools used by pulmonologists.

At Henderson Pulmonology, we know that hearing you need a “lung test” can sound intimidating. That is why we want to explain exactly what pulmonary function tests are, what to expect during the process, and how the results are used to guide your care. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and confident before your appointment, so you can focus on what matters most—your health.

What Is a Pulmonary Function Test?

A pulmonary function test (PFT) is a group of breathing tests that measure how well your lungs are working. These tests look at:

• How much air your lungs can hold
  
• How quickly you can move air in and out
  
• How effectively your lungs transfer oxygen into your bloodstream
  

The results help pulmonologists evaluate whether your lungs are functioning normally, or if a condition like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or pulmonary fibrosis may be limiting your breathing.

Think of a PFT as a fitness check for your lungs. Just like your heart can be evaluated with an EKG, your lungs can be evaluated with these simple, noninvasive tests.

Why You Might Need a Pulmonary Function Test

There are many reasons your doctor may order a PFT. Some of the most common include:

• Diagnosing lung conditions: Asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, lung nodules, or other chronic diseases can all be evaluated with PFTs.
  
• Measuring severity: If you already have a diagnosis, a PFT helps determine how advanced the condition is.
  
• Monitoring progress: Patients undergoing treatment for lung disease can have repeat tests to see if medications or therapies are improving lung function.
  
• Pre-surgical evaluation: Before certain types of surgery, doctors may request a lung test to make sure your lungs are strong enough for anesthesia.
  
• Work or environmental exposure: People exposed to dust, smoke, or chemicals may undergo regular testing to track changes in lung health.
  

At Henderson Pulmonology, many patients come to us because they are experiencing breathing difficulties and need clear answers. A PFT provides those answers and helps us create a personalized treatment plan.

What Types of Pulmonary Function Tests Are There?

Several different tests may be performed under the umbrella of “pulmonary function testing.” Depending on your symptoms and medical history, you may have one or more of the following:

1. Spirometry
   
   • The most common PFT.
     
   • Measures how much air you can inhale and exhale, and how fast you can blow air out.
     
   • Often used to diagnose asthma or COPD.
     
2. Lung Volume Test
   
   • Evaluates how much air your lungs can hold.
     
   • Helps diagnose conditions that make lungs stiff or scarred, such as pulmonary fibrosis.
     
3. Diffusion Capacity Test (DLCO)
   
   • Measures how well oxygen passes from your lungs into your bloodstream.
     
   • Useful for detecting diseases that affect the tiny air sacs in the lungs.
     
4. Gas Exchange or Exercise Tests
   
   • Show how your lungs work during physical activity.
     
   • Helpful if you experience shortness of breath when active.
     

What to Expect During a PFT

If you are scheduled for a pulmonary function test in Henderson, here is what you can expect:

1. Preparation
   
   • Your provider will give you instructions about medications. In some cases, you may be asked not to use inhalers before the test.
     
   • Wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict your breathing.
     
   • Avoid heavy meals right before your test.
     
2. During the Test
   
   • You will sit upright and breathe into a mouthpiece connected to a machine.
     
   • A technician will guide you through exercises like taking a deep breath and exhaling forcefully, or breathing in and out slowly.
     
   • Some tests may involve wearing a nose clip to make sure you breathe only through your mouth.
     
3. Timeframe
   
   • Most PFTs take between 30 and 60 minutes.
     
   • The test is painless and noninvasive.
     

Patients often tell us they were nervous at first, but after completing the test, they are surprised at how simple it really is.

Understanding Your PFT Results

After your lung test, the pulmonologist reviews the results and explains what they mean.

• Normal results suggest your lungs are functioning well.
  
• Abnormal results can show whether you have an obstructive condition (like asthma or COPD, where airflow is blocked) or a restrictive condition (like pulmonary fibrosis, where lungs cannot expand fully).
  
• Results are compared to what is expected for your age, height, sex, and race.
  

At Henderson Pulmonology, we always take time to go over your results in plain language. If something is abnormal, we explain the next steps, whether that means additional testing, medication, lifestyle changes, or a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Common Fears About Lung Tests And Why You Shouldn’t Worry

Many patients feel anxious before their first PFT. Here are a few common concerns we hear, along with reassurance:

• “Will it hurt?”
  No. PFTs are completely noninvasive and painless. You may feel slightly short of breath during parts of the test, but this is temporary and expected.
  
• “What if I can’t breathe well enough to do the test?”
  The test is designed to measure your breathing ability, so it is okay if you cannot breathe normally. The technician will guide you and encourage you through each step.
  
• “Does the test expose me to radiation or harmful effects?”
  Not at all. Pulmonary function tests are safe and do not involve radiation.
  

Knowing what to expect can take away much of the anxiety. Our team at Henderson Pulmonology is committed to making sure you feel comfortable every step of the way.

The Importance of Local Care

If you search for a pulmonary function test in Henderson or a lung test in Las Vegas, you will likely see several options. What makes Henderson Pulmonology unique is our personalized, compassionate approach. We do not just run the test and hand you numbers—we interpret the results, explain them clearly, and partner with you on a care plan that improves your quality of life.

Our providers live and work in this community, which means we understand the specific environmental challenges that can affect your breathing, from desert dust storms to seasonal allergens to wildfire smoke. This local expertise ensures that your care is tailored not only to your health history but also to your environment.

Taking the Next Step

If you are experiencing unexplained breathing difficulties, chronic cough, or other symptoms that concern you, a pulmonary function test may be the key to finding answers. Dr. Kevin Tsui at Henderson Pulmonology is here to provide clarity and peace of mind.

Whether you need testing for a diagnosis, a check-up on a chronic condition, or reassurance before surgery, our team is ready to help.

Schedule Your Pulmonary Function Test in Henderson

Don’t let uncertainty about your lung health hold you back. If you have been searching for “lung test Las Vegas” or “pulmonary function test Henderson,” the team at Henderson Pulmonology is here to guide you!

Request an appointment online to schedule your pulmonary function test and take the first step to breathe health into life!

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