Lung disease is one of the most common medical conditions that prevent the lungs from working properly. Some of the common lung diseases include asthma, COPD, pneumonia, bronchitis, etc. If you are suffering from any of these conditions you can search for a hospital with a pulmonology department. Pulmonology in Siliguri offers right diagnosis and treatment to those suffering from various chronic lung diseases.
Pulmonary function tests or PFTs are breathing tests that help to determine how well your lungs work. These tests help to measure the lung volume, capacity, and circulation of air into your lungs. Despite diagnoses, PFTs are also vital in monitoring the response to treatment and assessing the risks of lung surgeries. Understanding the importance of these tests is essential as they provide a clear understanding of the patient’s condition and allow for timely intervention ensuring overall well-being.
Types of Pulmonary Functions tests:
Spirometry:
Spirometry is one of the most common types of pulmonary functions tests. If you are suffering from wheezing, shortness of breath, or a cough then the doctor may recommend this procedure. This test helps to measure how much air you can breathe in and out of your lungs. This test helps to diagnose various lung diseases including asthma, COPD, or pulmonary fibrosis.
Chest X-rays:
A chest x-ray is a fast and painless procedure that creates an image of the organs and structures in your chest. This test helps to check the conditions such as pneumonia, lung cancer, tuberculosis, and lung tissue scarring or fibrosis. For this procedure you can visit the clinic of one of the best pulmonologists in Siliguri.
Bronchoscopy:
A bronchoscopy is a procedure that helps the doctor to identify the actual cause of lung disease. This procedure is usually done by inserting an instrument called a bronchoscope (a tube attached with a light and a small camera) into your lungs. This procedure is used to identify tumors, signs of infection, excess mucus in the airways, bleeding, or blockages in the lungs. This also allows the doctor to take samples of mucus for laboratory tests.
CT Scans:
Chest computed tomography or CT scan is another painless imaging test that creates a detailed picture of your lungs and the inside of your chest. This helps to figure out the actual cause of lung symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain. However, for some diagnoses, a contrast dye may be injected into your arm before an imaging test.
Some of the importance of pulmonary function tests are as follows;
Early detection of Lung diseases:
Pulmonary function tests or PFTs can help to detect lung diseases early. These tests help to measure lung volume, capacity, and circulation of air in and out of your lungs. This allows the doctor to identify the changes in lung functions which may indicate the signs of respiratory disease even before the symptoms appear. With early detection, you can get the necessary treatment which helps to minimize or even prevent the progression of lung diseases.
Monitor the progression of diseases:
Pulmonary function testing is a group of tests that helps to monitor the progression of diseases. These tests provide objective data on how well the lungs are functioning over time. With this information the doctor can track changes in lung capacity and airflow rates. By comparing the current data the doctor may adjust the treatment plans depending on the complications. This ensures that patients receive necessary care at every stage of their condition.
Assess the function of the lung before surgery:
PFTs are also used to check lung function before surgery or other procedures. This may be done in people who have lung or heart problems, who are smokers, or who have other health issues. This is to ensure that a patient’s lungs are healthy enough to tolerate the stress of anaesthesia. This test also helps to identify potential issues which might increase the risk of complications during or after surgery.
Differentiate lung diseases:
To differentiate lung disease, PFTs provide a detailed insight into how the lungs are functioning. The tests assess lung volumes, airflow, and the air circulation which helps to differentiate between obstructive and restrictive lung diseases. With this the doctor can create a personalized treatment plan for a long-term and effective recovery.
Conclusion:
Lung disease is one of the most common medical conditions that an individual suffers from. Some of the common lung diseases include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia, bronchitis, etc. To treat this condition you need to search for a hospital with pulmonology in Siliguri. This department offers pulmonology function tests to diagnose lung diseases. These tests measure various aspects of lung health to detect lung disease at its early stage, even before minor symptoms appear. Some other important pulmonary function tests include monitoring disease progression, assessing its function before surgery, and differentiating lung diseases.
