Lung function testing
Respiratory Function Testing
Lung function tests measure how well your lungs are working. They help find the cause of breathlessness, cough or wheeze, and show whether treatment is helping.
Overview
We offer a full range of respiratory function tests. Your doctor may request one test or several, depending on your symptoms. Most tests are painless and involve breathing into a mouthpiece while a respiratory scientist coaches you.
Results are reported to your referring doctor, who will explain what they mean for you.
Tests we offer
Spirometry
Measures how much air you can breathe out and how quickly. You take a full breath in and blow out hard and fast, usually a few times, and sometimes again after a reliever inhaler.
Used for: Asthma, COPD, cough and breathlessness.
Gas transfer (DLCO)
Shows how well oxygen passes from your lungs into your blood. You breathe in a small amount of a harmless test gas and hold your breath for about 10 seconds.
Used for: Emphysema, lung scarring and lung blood vessel conditions.
FeNO
A quick breath test measuring nitric oxide, a marker of airway inflammation. You breathe out slowly and steadily into a handheld device.
Used for: Diagnosing asthma and guiding preventer treatment.
Bronchial challenge
Checks how sensitive your airways are. You inhale increasing doses of a test substance such as mannitol, with spirometry between doses.
Used for: Suspected asthma when routine tests are normal.
6 minute walk test
You walk at your own pace on a flat course for six minutes while we monitor your oxygen levels and heart rate.
Used for: Exercise capacity and breathlessness on exertion.
Rhinometry
Measures the size of your nasal passages and how freely air flows through your nose. It is quick and painless.
Used for: Nasal blockage and nasal breathing problems affecting sleep or CPAP.
Who it’s for
- Shortness of breath, persistent cough or wheeze
- Diagnosing and monitoring asthma and COPD
- Lung scarring, emphysema or other lung disease
- Checking lung function before surgery or for work
- Nasal blockage affecting breathing or sleep
What to expect
- 1ReferralAsk your GP or specialist for a referral listing the tests you need.
- 2BookingWe call you to book and send preparation instructions.
- 3TestingTests take between [XX] minutes and [XX] minutes, depending on which are requested.
- 4ResultsA report is sent to your referring doctor.
How to prepare
- Ask us which inhalers or medications to withhold before your test
- Avoid smoking for at least [XX] hours beforehand
- Avoid heavy meals and vigorous exercise before testing
- Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes for a walk test
Frequently asked questions
Do the tests hurt?
No. Most tests involve breathing into a mouthpiece. Some people feel a little tired or light-headed from blowing hard, which passes quickly.
Do I need a referral?
Yes. [Confirm Medicare eligibility.]
Can children be tested?
[Confirm minimum age.]
Ready to book?
Our team will help you with referrals, preparation and any questions.