Pulmonary Function Testing for Children and Adults
Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT) is a safe, non-invasive way to measure how well your lungs are working, including airflow, breathing capacity, and gas exchange. Our PFT Lab helps diagnose and monitor asthma, chronic cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, and other respiratory conditions without hospital facility fees.
Contact us to request a PFT Lab appointment:
Why it matters
Faster diagnosis, clearer treatment decisions, and better tracking of how the lungs respond over time.
Convenient outpatient testing
Local pulmonary testing in Wayne, serving Northern New Jersey and the New York metro region.
Wayne, NJ
Serving patients across Northern New Jersey and the New York metro area.
15-45
Minutes for most tests
No
Hospital facility fees
What Is Pulmonary Function Testing?
Pulmonary Function Testing is a group of non-invasive breathing tests used to measure how well the lungs are working. These tests evaluate lung volume, airflow, lung capacity, and gas exchange for both pediatric and adult patients.
- Lung volume
- Airflow
- Lung capacity
- Gas exchange
Why These Tests Matter
- Confirm or rule out asthma
- Determine the severity of airway inflammation
- Monitor response to treatment
- Reduce unnecessary medications
- Help prevent emergency visits
- Support referring physicians with clearer respiratory data
Testing Comfort
PFT is performed to provide using the MiniBox+ system, designed to provide reliable pulmonary measurements in a more comfortable, patient-friendly way. Many patients find it easier than older methods that can feel more physically demanding.
This approach is especially helpful for pediatric patients, older adults, and anyone who has trouble with forceful breathing maneuvers.
Age Guidelines
Typical pediatric testing age
Most children can perform standard spirometry reliably around age 5 and above with coaching.
Younger children
For younger children, impulse oscillometry may be used when forced breathing maneuvers are difficult.
Adults and seniors
Adults and elderly patients can be tested safely with guided, non-invasive breathing assessments.
Types of Tests
Pulmonary Function Testing Options
Expand each test below to see what it measures and why it may be recommended.
Spirometry is the most common pulmonary function test. It measures airflow in the lungs by having the patient breathe into a mouthpiece connected to a spirometer. It tracks Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1) to help identify asthma, airway obstruction, and exercise-induced bronchospasm.
Common indications
- Asthma diagnosis or follow-up
- Chronic cough, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- Monitoring response to inhaled treatment
Pediatric PFT
When Should My Child Have PFT?
Your child may benefit from pulmonary function testing if they experience:
- Frequent cough
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Exercise intolerance
- Recurrent respiratory symptoms
- Poor response to asthma medication
Adult PFT
Adult Pulmonary Function Testing
Adults also benefit from full pulmonary function testing when symptoms are persistent, unexplained, or not improving as expected.
- Frequent cough
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Exercise intolerance
- Recurrent respiratory symptoms
- Poor response to asthma medication
How to Prepare
Test Duration
15-45 minutes
Most tests are completed within this range, depending on the type of study ordered and the patient’s age and ability to follow instructions.
After the Test
Most patients can resume normal activities immediately after the test unless the doctor provides different instructions.
Referral Requirements
- A referral/order from a licensed physician is required before scheduling.
- The order should include the reason for testing and the requested study when available.
- Please bring the referral/prescription at the time of the visit.
Report Turnaround
Most pulmonary function test reports are completed within 24-48 hours after testing and sent promptly to the referring physician.
If an urgent interpretation is needed, please inform our staff when scheduling.
Testimonials
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PFT Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Common answers about preparation, safety, referrals, and what to expect during pulmonary function testing.
Are pulmonary function tests painful?+
No. Pulmonary function tests are not painful. The test only involves breathing through a mouthpiece while following simple instructions. Some patients may feel slightly tired from blowing out forcefully, but the test is safe and well tolerated.
Can I eat or drink before my PFT appointment?+
Yes, you may eat and drink before your test, but we recommend avoiding heavy meals right before your appointment. A full stomach may make it harder to take deep breaths comfortably. It is also best to avoid alcohol and smoking before the test.
Should I use my inhaler before the test?+
This depends on your doctor’s instructions. Some patients are asked to stop using certain inhalers before testing so the results are more accurate. Please follow the instructions given by your physician or our office before your appointment.
What should I wear to my PFT appointment?+
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows you to breathe easily. Avoid tight clothing around your chest or abdomen, as this may affect your breathing during the test.
Can elderly patients do pulmonary function testing?+
Yes. Our laboratory uses modern equipment designed to make testing easier for elderly patients. The test is non-invasive and performed with guidance from trained respiratory professionals to ensure comfort and accuracy.
What if I cannot blow hard enough during the test?+
Our respiratory staff will guide you step-by-step and allow you to practice before the actual test. The goal is to get the best effort possible, and the test can be repeated if needed to ensure accurate results.
Can I take my regular medications before the test?+
You may take your regular medications unless your doctor tells you otherwise. If you are unsure, please contact our office before your appointment for instructions.
Is pulmonary function testing safe for children?+
Yes. Pulmonary function testing is safe for children when ordered by a physician. We use advanced equipment that is designed to be more comfortable and easier for pediatric patients to perform.
Will I get my results the same day?+
Results are usually reviewed by the physician who ordered the test. In most cases, your doctor will discuss the results with you at your follow-up visit or contact you after reviewing the report.
Can I do PFT testing without a doctor’s order?+
No. All pulmonary function tests require a referral from a licensed physician. A prescription must be provided before scheduling and must be presented at the time of your appointment.
Schedule Pulmonary Function Testing
Pulmonary Function Testing in Wayne, NJ
Our PFT Lab serves pediatric and adult patients throughout Wayne, Northern New Jersey, and the New York metro region. Testing is performed in a convenient outpatient setting with a patient-focused experience.
Contact us to request a PFT Lab appointment: