Pulmonary Function Testing Specialist
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Amanuel Sima, M.D., F.A.A.S.M.
Internist & Pulmonologist located in Beverly Hills, CA & Inglewood, CA
Pulmonary function testing is essential for diagnosing the cause of symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing. Dr. Amanuel Sima, MD, offers cutting-edge diagnostic testing along with expert evaluation and treatment that helps support breathing and prevent lung disease from progressing. If you have questions about persistent lung symptoms or you’d like to schedule an appointment, call one of the offices in Beverly Hills and Inglewood, California, or use the online booking feature.
Pulmonary Function Testing Q & A
When might I need pulmonary function testing?
Pulmonary function testing refers to numerous tests Dr. Sima performs to evaluate how well your lungs work. One or more of these tests are done to:
- Diagnose lung conditions
- Detect airway narrowing
- Monitor chronic lung disease
- Evaluate the effect of medications
- Measure progress during treatment
- Assess lung function before surgery
Dr. Sima may also recommend routine pulmonary function testing if you work in an environment where you’re frequently exposed to chemicals, gases, or other substances that can harm your lungs.
What health conditions require pulmonary testing?
Pulmonary function testing is required to diagnose or provide ongoing monitoring of conditions such as:
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Bronchitis
- Emphysema
- Scleroderma
- Sarcoidosis
- Interstitial lung disease
- Chronic respiratory infections
Dr. Sima may also use pulmonary function testing to help guide lung cancer treatment.
What are the different types of pulmonary function tests?
Pulmonary function testing includes numerous tests that measure different qualities of lung function. Dr. Sima may perform one or more, depending on the information needed for your lung condition.
A few examples of the most common tests include:
- Spirometry
- Diffusion studies
- Lung volume tests
- Forced vital capacity
- Pulse oximetry
- Arterial blood gas test
- Fractional exhaled nitric oxide test
The most common pulmonary function test, spirometry, measures the amount of air you can inhale and how much you can quickly blow out of your lungs. During spirometry, you take in a deep breath then blow it out, breathing through a tube connected to a spirometer.
Diffusion tests reveal how well oxygen moves from your lungs into your blood. Many pieces of information about your lungs are gathered during lung function testing, including measurements showing how much oxygen and carbon dioxide are in your blood and the amount of nitric oxide you exhale.
What should I know about pulmonary function testing?
Depending on the test, you may need to stop taking certain medications, stop smoking, or avoid exercise in the hours before your test is scheduled. You also shouldn’t eat a large meal before a pulmonary function test.
Pulmonary function tests are safe, but they may cause coughing, dizziness, or shortness of breath. You’re closely monitored throughout your testing, and Dr. Sima is available to provide immediate medical care if you need it.
Pulmonary function testing is done on-site by Dr. Amanuel Sima, MD. To schedule an appointment, call the office or use the online booking feature.
