Lung Function Tests

Pulmonary Function Tests

How To Prepare

Tell your doctor if you:

• Have had recent chest pains or a heart attack.
• Take medicine for a lung problem, such as asthma. You may need to stop taking some medicines before testing.
• Are allergic to any medicines.
• Have had recent surgery on your eyes, chest, or abdomen, or if you have had a collapsed lung (pneumothorax).

Do not eat a heavy meal just before this test because a full stomach may prevent your lungs from fully expanding. You should not smoke or exercise vigorously for 6 hours before the test. On the day of the test, wear loose clothing that does not restrict your breathing in any way. You should also avoid food or drinks that have caffeine because it can cause your airways to relax and allow more air than usual to pass through.

If you have dentures, wear them during the test to help you form a tight seal around the mouthpiece of the spirometer.

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Author:	Maria Essig	Last Updated: June 7, 2009
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine Robert L. Cowie, MB, FCP(SA), MD, MSc, MFOM - Pulmonology
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