I have my first lung function test on Thursday. Can anyone shed any light on what it involves? I am asthmatic, so will that effect it too?

[Wendy39]

I have subacute cutaneous lupus, which I believe is a sub group of Discoid Lupus?! Diagnosed Nov 2013. Just a little anxious, so any info would be helpful.

[Hidden]

Hi wendy39, I had lung function test last year. Don't worry, it was ok. It just involves a lot of blowing into mouth pieces, that connect to machines. These give a reading that make up the total air space in your lungs. They ask you to blow differently, for eg,,, quick sharp blow, long slow breaths. I found it a bit repetitive and boring !!! The nurse will give you lots of incouragement to keep going. The letter I had with my appt, stated that you must not wear lipstick. Having had the test, I can see why. Your mouth has to seal the pipe totally. Lipstick would prevent that, and would be messy. There was a reference to asthma regarding pumps, but I took no notice of that bit, as it didn't apply to me. I would say the tests took about 20 mins. If you receive any results, ( not on the day), ring the British lung foundation and they will explain them to you.

[lynzard]

Hi Wendy

I've had a few of these. As 661 states it is different types of blowing. No difficullt just feels weird cos you have aclip ting on your nose so you can't use it to breathe then whilst you are blowing into a tube it feels like they cut the air off VERY briefly for a split second. Absolutely nothing to worry about tho I must confess I don't actually like them but having said that I wouldn't be freaking out if I have to go for another. You should defintitely take your puffer with you as if you use them you have to do the tests twice - once without and then after using puffer. Meant to try not to use it before you get there IF IT'S SAFE FOR YOU TO DO THAT. I think if I remember rightly there is a pic of lung function test on google. It's nothing to be concerned about and as 6161 says the nurse will tell you exactly what to do in an encourgaing manner. Good luck and I hope you have a good day today. xxx

[Hidden]

Forgot about the nose clip !!! Don't worry you'll be fine.

[Maureenpearl]

Hi Wendy39, you will be instructed to blow and breathe into a machine through a tube. There is anything to worry about and sometimes it's best not to know every detail before hand (as ignorance for me is bliss). Take your asthma medication with you but they will be able to reassure you regarding your asthma.

Hope all goes well and I will pray for a good result for you.

[Wendy39]

Hello. Just wanted to say that the Lung Function test was fine. Thank you all for your replies. The only test left now is the ECHO. Phew. Then it's just a matter of waiting for all the results. Thanks again.