Asthma Education

Do you have asthma or think you might have it but have never been formally diagnosed?

Here at Whitehorse Medical Centre we can perform a Lung Function Test on yourself or a loved one.

What are the benefits of a Lung Function Test?

Show how well your lungs are working
Measure how chronic lung conditions (eg asthma, emphysema) affect your lungs
Find early changes in your lungs that can be treated
Help decide if a medicine, eg Ventolin, could be helpful

What happens during a Lung Function Test?

Our specially trained nurses measure how much air you can breathe into your lungs and how much air you can quickly blow out of your lungs. This test is done by having you take in a deep breath and then, as fast as you can, blow out all of the air. You will be blowing into a tube connected to a machine (spirometer). To get the “best” test result, the test is repeated three times. You will be given a rest between tests.

The test is often repeated after giving you a breathing medicine (bronchodilator, eg Ventolin) to find out how much better you might breathe with this type of medicine. It can take practice to be able to do a spirometry test well. The staff person will work with you to learn how to do the test correctly. It usually takes 30 minutes to complete this test.

How do I prepare for a Lung Function Test?

Do not smoke for at least 1 hour before the test.
Do not drink alcohol for at least 4 hours before the test.
Do not exercise heavily for at least 30 minutes before the test.
Wear loose clothing so you can take a deep breath.
Do not eat a large meal within 2 hours before the test.
Do not take any asthma or lung preventer medicines in the 24 hours before the test
It is best to book your Lung Function Test on the day that your usual GP is on duty to be able to discuss the findings with your GP

For more information on how to prepare click here.