Lung Function Tests: Why It Is Done
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Why It Is Done
Lung function tests are done to:
- Determine the cause of breathing problems.
- Diagnose certain lung diseases, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Evaluate a person's lung function before surgery.
- Monitor the lung function of a person who is regularly exposed to substances such as asbestos that can damage the lungs.
- Monitor the effectiveness of treatment for lung diseases.
| Last updated: | July 03, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine, Robert L. Cowie, MB, FCP(SA), MD, MSc, MFOM - Pulmonology |
| Editors: | Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC, Tracy Landauer |
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