If you’ve been scheduled for a pulmonary function test (PFT), you may be wondering what exactly it involves, how to prepare, and why your provider recommended it. At Paloma Medical Group, we offer same-day pulmonary function testing right in our offices, making it easy for you to receive the answers and care you need without delay.
Pulmonary function tests are a simple, non-invasive way to evaluate how well your lungs are working. Whether your physician is monitoring a chronic condition or investigating symptoms like shortness of breath or a persistent cough, PFTs play a vital role in diagnosis and treatment planning.
Let’s walk through what to expect before, during, and after your test.
Why Pulmonary Function Testing Matters
Pulmonary function tests are used to measure how much air your lungs can hold, how quickly you can move air in and out, and how well your lungs transfer oxygen into the bloodstream. These results help physicians identify a wide range of respiratory conditions, including:
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Emphysema
- Chronic bronchitis
- Restrictive lung disease
- Lung function after surgery or medication use
For our patients at Paloma Medical Group, many of whom are managing chronic conditions or recovering from hospitalization, PFTs offer timely insight that can help prevent complications and improve quality of life.
What to Expect Before the Test
Pulmonary function tests don’t require much preparation, but your provider may give you specific instructions based on your current medications or health status. In general:
- Avoid eating a large meal beforehand. A full stomach can make it more difficult to breathe deeply.
- Refrain from smoking or using inhalers for several hours before the test, unless told otherwise by your physician.
- Dress comfortably in loose-fitting clothing that won’t restrict your breathing.
If you’re taking medications that affect your breathing (such as bronchodilators), your physician may ask you to stop taking them temporarily before the test. Always follow the personalized instructions provided by your care team.
What Happens During the Test
Pulmonary function tests are conducted in our Laguna Hills and San Juan Capistrano offices and typically take about 30 to 60 minutes. The test is supervised by trained clinical staff, and the process is safe and painless.
Here are some common types of PFTs you may undergo:
Spirometry
This is the most common type of PFT. You’ll sit comfortably and breathe into a mouthpiece connected to a machine that records the volume and speed of your breath. You may be asked to:
- Breathe in deeply and exhale forcefully
- Repeat the process multiple times for accuracy
- Sometimes perform the test before and after taking a bronchodilator
Spirometry helps measure how much air your lungs can hold and how quickly you can exhale.
Lung Volume Testing
This test assesses the total amount of air in your lungs. It may be performed using a body plethysmograph (a small, enclosed booth) or a gas dilution method. You’ll breathe through a mouthpiece while following instructions from the technician.
Diffusion Capacity Testing
This test evaluates how efficiently your lungs transfer oxygen into your blood. You’ll breathe in a harmless gas mixture and hold your breath for a few seconds before exhaling. This helps your physician assess the health of the lung tissue and blood vessels.
How It Feels
Most patients tolerate pulmonary function testing very well. You might feel slightly lightheaded or tired during or after the test, especially if you’re asked to breathe forcefully several times. Our team monitors you throughout the process to ensure your comfort and safety.
If you ever feel dizzy, breathless, or unwell, let your technician know immediately.
After the Test: Getting Results
One of the advantages of completing your pulmonary function testing at Paloma Medical Group is that your results are quickly reviewed by your physician—often the same day. Because we offer direct physician access and same-week appointments, you won’t wait long for answers or next steps.
Your physician will interpret the results and explain:
- Whether your lung function is within normal range
- If there’s evidence of obstructive or restrictive lung disease
- How your treatment plan may change based on the findings
For patients managing chronic respiratory conditions, your PFT results may be compared to previous tests to track progression or response to treatment.
Why Choose Paloma Medical Group for PFTs?
At Paloma Medical Group, we’ve designed our care around comfort, clarity, and connection. With same-day testing, minimal wait times, and direct communication with your physician, you can expect an experience that’s both efficient and deeply personalized.
Our physicians also have privileges at leading hospitals in the area, including Hoag, MemorialCare, UCI, and Providence—meaning your care will remain seamless even if your health needs change.
Whether you’re being evaluated for a new diagnosis or monitoring an existing condition, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Schedule Your Pulmonary Function Test
If you’ve been experiencing changes in your breathing or have been referred for a pulmonary function test, we’re ready to help. With offices in Laguna Hills and San Juan Capistrano, Paloma Medical Group proudly serves patients throughout South Orange County.
Call 949-443-4303 today to schedule your PFT and take the next step toward better lung health.
