Pediatric Lung Function Testing
What is a Lung Function Test?
A lung function test assesses how well your child’s lungs are functioning. It measures both the volume of air and the speed at which your child can inhale and exhale. The most commonly used lung function test is spirometry. Other types include lung volume measurements, diffusion capacity, and impulse oscillometry.
Which Children Benefit from Lung Function Testing?
Lung function testing is particularly beneficial for children experiencing recurrent chest congestion or wheezing, childhood asthma, breathing difficulties triggered by exercise, or complex lung conditions.
How Does Lung Function Testing Help in Asthma Management?
These tests are valuable in confirming an asthma diagnosis, evaluating the severity of the condition, and monitoring how well treatments are working.
Do All Children with Asthma Need a Lung Function Test?
Yes, all children with asthma should undergo lung function testing. For those with mild asthma, an annual test is generally sufficient. Children with more severe asthma may require testing more frequently to track their condition closely.
