Pulmonary Tests
The experts at the Lung Center at UM BWMC in Glen Burnie use advanced and scientifically proven pulmonary function testing to see how well your lungs are working, diagnose lung disorders and create treatment plans.
Testing is available for both outpatients and inpatients at UM BWMC.
Types of Pulmonary Tests
- Spirometry is one of the more common pulmonary function tests performed . This test measures the amount of air your lungs can hold and how forcefully you can empty the air from your lungs. Spirometry can help specialists diagnose diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Lung diffusion testing, also known as a gas diffusion study, is another way specialists check how your lungs are working. These tests measure how well the oxygen you breath into your body moves from your lungs to your blood.
- Lung volume test, also known as a body plethysmography test, measures how much air you can hold in your lungs and the amount of air that remains after you breathe out as much as you can.
Most pulmonary function tests take 15 to 30 minutes to complete. They are not painful, and after the test is done, you can return to your normal activities.
Some of our other testing services include:
- Pulmonary stress tests to check heart and lung function during exercise
- Trauma-related respiratory care to treat patients in emergencies
- Methacholine challenge to check for hyper-responsive airways, which can indicate asthma
What to Expect During Pulmonary Function Testing?
Pulmonary function tests may be repeated several times to ensure accuracy. For best results during testing:
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing
- Take your daily medicines before testing unless your doctor tells you not to
- Ask your doctor any questions before the testing begins
- Don’t smoke for at least six hours before testing
- Don’t eat a large meal before testing
Avoid food and drinks with caffeine before testing.