Pulmonary Function Testing
Pulmonary Function Tests & 6-Minute Walk Test
Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) measure how well your lungs move air and transfer oxygen into the blood. They help diagnose and track asthma, COPD, interstitial lung disease and other conditions, and are often needed before surgery.
PFTs may include:
- Spirometry: how much air you can blow out and how fast, often before and after an inhaled bronchodilator
- Lung volumes: how much air your lungs hold
- Diffusion capacity (DLCO): how well oxygen passes into the blood
The 6-minute walk test measures how far you can walk in six minutes while we monitor your oxygen level and heart rate. It helps assess exercise tolerance and whether you need oxygen with activity.
Preparing & What to Expect
How to prepare
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing and walking shoes
- Do not smoke or vape for at least 1 hour before testing
- Avoid a heavy meal for 2 hours and vigorous exercise for 1 hour before
- Bring a list of your medications and your inhalers
- Do not use your inhalers on the day of the test. Take your other medications as usual. If you have trouble breathing and need your rescue inhaler, use it and tell the technician when you arrive
- If you use oxygen, a cane or a walker, bring them
What to expect
A respiratory therapist will coach you through each breathing maneuver. Testing usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. You may feel briefly tired or lightheaded. Your physician will review the results with you.
See also: Asthma · COPD & Emphysema