Pulmonary Function Laboratory

Respiratory

Pulmonary Function Laboratory

Do you have shortness of breath? Do you get winded walking up a flight of stairs? Do you have a persistent cough that never seems to go away? If so, these may be signs that your lung function should be tested. Routine screening for lung disease gives you the best defense of early detection and treatment. To schedule a test, call (773) 564-5643 or request an appointment online.

Pulmonary Function Testing

Pulmonary function tests are breathing exercises that measure the function of the lungs and detect problems in a patient’s breathing. These help determine the cause of shortness of breath and confirm lung diseases such as asthma, bronchitis or emphysema. Many lung problems can be successfully treated if detected early. These tests also measure how a lung disease is progressing, how serious it has become, and how a patient is responding to treatment. These tests are also performed before major lung surgery to better predict recovery time.

What Is a Pulmonary Function Test?

Pulmonary function testing consists of several tests that measure airway resistance, airflow obstruction, lung volumes and gas exchanges (the body’s ability to get oxygen from the lungs). These tests help your doctor diagnose the reason for shortness of breath. A respiratory medication is usually given with the study to determine if the patient would benefit from bronchodilator therapy.

Make an Appointment

The Pulmonary Function Laboratory at Weiss Memorial Hospital is open Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.–2:30 p.m., with the last appointment taken at 1 p.m. Evening and weekend hours may be available on request.

To schedule a test, call (773) 564-5643.

Before your appointment, you should review our Pulmonary Function Instructions.

Doctor listening to breath of child

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Whether you have a question about Respiratory Services or would like more information on our hospital, we’d love to hear from you!