Lung Function Test information and Preparation

Spirometry:

Spirometry is used to measure the air capacity of your lungs to help identify disease and monitor progress. The Spirometry test will take 20 minutes. Avoid short acting bronchodilators (Ventolin, Atrovent, Bricanyl) for 4 hours prior to test. Avoid smoking on the day of the test.

Comprehensive Lung Function Test:

This test assesses the function of airways and lung tissue to accurately evaluate the respiratory system. The test will take approximately 45 minutes. Avoid smoking on the day of the test.

Six Minute Walk Test:

This test assesses the oxygen saturation and heart rate levels during a six-minute walk. This can help guide decisions regarding home oxygen and treatment. The test will take approximately 30 minutes.

 Mannitol Challenge:

This test assesses for Asthma. Avoid anti-histamines for 72 hours, steroids for 3 weeks and tricyclic antidepressants for 7 days. The test will take approximately 60 minutes.

what to bring to your appointment?

Lung Function tests measure how effectively air can be moved in and out of the lungs and how the lungs are functioning.

• Your GP or specialist referral
  

• Current list of medications
  

• Your valid Medicare Card
  

• Your Veterans Affairs Card if you have one
  

As well as being a General Medicine Specialist, Dr Mowlem has also additionally trained as a Respiratory and Sleep Medicine Specialist, with a special interest in optimal management of lung conditions including asthma, smoking related lung conditions, occupational lung disease, respiratory infections and sleep apnoea.

Talk to your Doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Do you have new or severe breathlessness?
  

• Do you have frequent chest infections?
  

• Do you have a persistent cough or unchanged cough?

• Do you experience chest pain, unexplained fatigue or have had sudden  weight loss?

• Have you smoked or currently smoking? 
  

Would you benefit from having a Lung Function Test?