If you regularly experience shortness of breath, chest tightness, or wheezing, consider breathing testing. At Allergy Associates of Utah in Murray and West Jordan, Utah, allergy specialists Andrew Smith, MD, MS, and Tara Sarin, MD, offer breathing testing to people of all ages to help them breathe easier. To schedule an appointment, call the nearest office, or book online today.
What is breathing testing?
Breathing testing refers to a group of procedures that help diagnose and monitor asthma. Asthma is a serious respiratory condition that causes your airways to swell and narrow. Over time, this can make it difficult to catch your breath, exercise, or perform routine activities.
Breathing testing is quick and efficient. It typically takes less than an hour, guides your treatment, and improves your overall quality of life.
What are the types of breathing testing?
At Allergy Associates of Utah, Dr. Smith and Dr. Sarin offer several types of breathing testing, including:
Spirometry
Spirometry is the most common type of breathing testing. During spirometry, you take a deep breath and exhale as quickly as possible into a mouthpiece called a spirometer. The spirometer measures your overall lung function. Specifically, the speed at which you exhale and inhale.
Peak flow meter
Peak flow is a type of breathing test that measures how quickly you exhale. During a peak flow test, you take a deep breath and exhale forcefully into a special mouthpiece. There are three peak flow zones -– green, yellow, and red. If you fall into the red or yellow category, it indicates narrowed airways and an increased risk of asthma.
FeNO tests
A FeNO test, or fractional exhaled nitric oxide test, measures the amount of inflammation in your lungs. If you have asthma, your airways become irritated and produce nitric acid. A high nitric acid reading indicates asthma.
Provocation tests
If the results of other breathing tests come back normal, but you regularly struggle to breathe during exercise or strenuous physical activity, Dr. Smith or Dr. Sarin might recommend a provocation test.
During a provocation test, you run on a treadmill or perform a series of light exercises. Dr. Smith or Dr. Sarin monitors your respiratory rate throughout to determine if you have asthma.
How do I know if I need breathing testing?
Dr. Smith or Dr. Sarin can determine if you need a breathing test at your consultation. Following a comprehensive exam, a review of your medical history, and a discussion of your lifestyle and symptoms, they can make testing recommendations that align with your needs.
Don’t wait to schedule a breathing testing appointment at Allergy Associates of Utah. Call the nearest office, or book online today.
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