Dynamic Drug Advancement Limited | Durham Institute of Respirology
Pulmonary Function Lab
Our lab offers various Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs). Please explore each of the test descriptions and preparation instructions below. If you are a physician and would like to refer a patient to our clinic for a PFT, please complete the Referral Form and fax it to our office.
​
Physician referral is required for all Pulmonary Function Testing.
Pulmonary Function Tests
PFTs are non-invasive tests that provide your healthcare provider with information to diagnose and determine treatment of various lung disorders. The most common PFTs are Spirometry, Plethysmography and Lung Diffusion Capacity Test. These three are typically performed during one appointment at our clinic, unless otherwise ordered by the referring physician.
Spirometry
During the test, you’ll breathe in as much air as you can. Then, you’ll quickly blow out as much air as you can through a tube connected to a machine called a spirometer.
​
In preparation for this test, please do not consume toxic substances (i.e. cigarettes, marijuana, alcohol), caffeine, or eat a heavy meal 1 hour prior to your scheduled test. Please avoid vigorous exercise 2 hours prior to your appointment. Please avoid wearing restrictive clothing. You will be notified if you are required to withhold your regular medication for asthma or COPD.
Plethysmography
During plethysmography, you sit in a clear plastic box. You wear a nose clip and breathe through your mouth through a special mouthpiece.
In preparation for this test, please do not consume toxic substances (i.e. cigarettes, marijuana, alcohol), caffeine, or eat a heavy meal 1 hour prior to your scheduled test. Please avoid vigorous exercise 2 hours prior to your appointment. Please avoid wearing restrictive clothing. You will be notified if you are required to withhold your regular medication for asthma or COPD.
Lung Diffusion Capacity Test
This test is similar to spirometry. You breathe into a tube attached to a machine.
In preparation for this test, please do not consume toxic substances (i.e. cigarettes, marijuana, alcohol), caffeine, or eat a heavy meal 1 hour prior to your scheduled test. Please avoid vigorous exercise 2 hours prior to your appointment. Please avoid wearing restrictive clothing. You will be notified if you are required to withhold your regular medication for asthma or COPD.
Walk Test
During this test, you walk at your normal pace for six minutes. This test can be used to monitor your response to treatments for heart, lung and other health problems.
You may use your usual walking aids such as a cane or walker, if needed. Take your usual medications. Do not exercise within two hours of testing.
FeNO
Fractional exhaled nitric oxide test: For this test, you breathe out slowly and steadily into a tube that’s connected to a portable device.
​
In preparation for this test, please do not consume leafy greens, caffeine, alcohol or heavy meals for a minimum of 2 hours prior to your scheduled test. You will be notified if you are required to withhold your regular medication for asthma or COPD.