Lung Function at Parkhealth Medical Centres in Cape Town

Lung function tests, also known as pulmonary function tests (PFTs), are used to show how well your lungs work. These tests are non-invasive and are commonly performed in the doctor’s rooms.

Why are Lung Function Tests Performed?

PFTs are used to detect and diagnose lung disease such as:

• Chronic bronchitis
• COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
• Disease caused by inhalation of asbestos fibers
• Asthma
• Allergies
• Lung infections
• Lung cancer
• Scleroderma (hardening or thickening of connective tissue)
• Weakness of the muscles in the wall of the chest
• Stretched, enlarged, or thickened airways
• Damaged lung tissue
• Sarcoidosis (a collection of inflammatory cells around the organs)
• Emphysema

Each of these conditions require an accurate diagnosis so that you can receive the right treatment.

Types of Lung Function Tests

There is a variety of PFTs that can be performed. These include:

• Spirometry
• Body plethysmography
• Lung diffusion capacity
• Bronchial provocation test
• Cardiopulmonary exercise stress test
• Pulse oximetry test
• Arterial blood gas test
• Fractional exhaled nitric oxide test

Our doctors in Cape Town will advise you on which test is most suitable for you and, should you require any further testing which cannot be performed in our rooms, our doctors will refer you to the relevant specialist or healthcare professional.

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