Lung Function Tests

Pulmonary Function Tests

How It Feels

If you have an arterial blood gas test, you may feel some pain from the needle used to collect the blood. The other lung function tests are usually painless. Some of the tests may be tiring for people who have a lung disease.

You may cough or feel light-headed after breathing in or out rapidly, but you will be given a chance to rest between tests. You may find it uncomfortable to wear the nose clip. Breathing through the mouthpiece for a long period of time may be uncomfortable.

If you have body plethysmography, you may feel uncomfortable in the airtight plethysmograph booth. However, the therapist will be nearby during the test to open the door if you feel too uncomfortable.

If you are given breathing medicine, it may cause you to shake or may increase your heart rate. If you feel any chest pain or discomfort, tell the therapist immediately.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC	Last Updated: August 6, 2007
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine Robert L. Cowie, MB, FCP(SA), MD, MSc, MFOM - Pulmonology
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