Pulmonary Function Test in Bangalore: Everything You Need to Know
Discover the importance of a Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) in Bangalore. Learn how the test works, why it’s crucial, and where to find the best clinics offering PFT services in Bangalore.

Introduction
When it comes to understanding the health of your lungs, one of the most effective ways to gain valuable insights is through a Pulmonary Function Test (PFT). This essential diagnostic tool measures how well your lungs are working and can help detect a variety of respiratory conditions, from asthma to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). If you are in Bangalore and need to undergo a PFT, it’s crucial to know how the test works, what to expect, and where you can find reliable healthcare providers.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Pulmonary Function Tests in Bangalore—why they are important, how they are performed, and where to get the best results.
What is a Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)?
A Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) is a set of tests used to assess the lungs’ ability to take in and exhale air, as well as how efficiently the oxygen is transferred to the bloodstream. These tests are primarily used to diagnose and monitor conditions that affect lung function, such as asthma, emphysema, and pulmonary fibrosis. A PFT can provide detailed information about lung volume, airflow, and gas exchange, helping doctors understand the severity of any lung disease or identify potential problems early.
Types of Pulmonary Function Tests
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Spirometry: This is the most common PFT. It measures how much air you can inhale and exhale, and how quickly you can exhale. Spirometry is often used to diagnose conditions like asthma, COPD, and restrictive lung diseases.
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Lung Volume Measurement: This test measures the total amount of air your lungs can hold. It’s useful in diagnosing conditions like emphysema, where air gets trapped in the lungs.
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Diffusion Capacity Test (DLCO): This test measures how effectively oxygen passes from the lungs into the bloodstream. It is helpful in identifying lung diseases that affect the exchange of gases, like pulmonary fibrosis.
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Peak Flow Measurement: This measures how fast you can blow air out of your lungs, helping doctors monitor asthma or COPD.
Why is a Pulmonary Function Test Important?
A PFT can help detect respiratory issues before symptoms become noticeable, leading to early intervention and better outcomes. Here are some reasons why a PFT is crucial:
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Early Detection of Lung Disease: Lung diseases like asthma, COPD, and fibrosis can be silent for a long time. A PFT can catch these issues early when treatment is most effective.
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Monitoring Existing Conditions: If you’ve already been diagnosed with a lung condition, a PFT can help track its progression and evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing treatment.
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Pre-surgical Assessment: If you’re preparing for surgery, particularly on your chest or abdomen, a PFT can determine whether your lungs are strong enough to handle the stress of surgery and anesthesia.
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Assessing Lung Function in Smokers: Smokers or former smokers are at high risk of lung diseases, and a PFT can help detect early signs of damage.
How is a Pulmonary Function Test Performed?
The process of undergoing a PFT is non-invasive and usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes. Here’s what you can expect during the test:
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Pre-Test Instructions: Before the test, your doctor may advise you to avoid eating large meals, drinking alcohol, or using inhalers for a few hours. Always follow your doctor’s instructions to ensure the most accurate results.
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Spirometry: You’ll be asked to breathe into a tube connected to a spirometer, a machine that records your breathing patterns. You’ll take a deep breath, then exhale as forcefully as possible for as long as you can. This process may be repeated a few times to get consistent results.
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Lung Volume Measurement: You may breathe in a harmless gas or sit in a sealed chamber to measure the amount of air in your lungs.
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Diffusion Capacity Test: You’ll inhale a small amount of gas and hold your breath briefly while the machine measures how much of the gas enters your bloodstream.
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Peak Flow Measurement: You will be asked to blow into a small device that measures the force of your exhalation.
What to Expect After the Test
After completing the PFT, you may experience some mild fatigue or dizziness, but these side effects are temporary and should subside quickly. The results of your test will be analyzed by a pulmonologist or your doctor, who will discuss the findings with you and suggest any necessary follow-up steps or treatments.
Common Conditions Diagnosed with PFT in Bangalore
Here are some of the most common respiratory conditions that a Pulmonary Function Test can help diagnose:
- Asthma: A chronic condition that causes difficulty breathing due to inflammation and narrowing of the airways.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A progressive lung disease that makes it hard to breathe, often caused by long-term smoking.
- Pulmonary Fibrosis: A condition where lung tissue becomes scarred, making it difficult to breathe.
- Emphysema: A type of COPD where the air sacs in the lungs are damaged, leading to breathing difficulties.
- Bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchial tubes that can lead to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Where to Get a Pulmonary Function Test in Bangalore
Bangalore, known for its advanced healthcare facilities, offers a range of clinics and hospitals providing Pulmonary Function Tests. Here are some top-rated healthcare providers in the city:
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Ecotown Diagnostics: A trusted name in diagnostics, Ecotown Diagnostics offers comprehensive pulmonary function testing services. They provide accurate, timely results with state-of-the-art equipment and experienced medical professionals.
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Manipal Hospital: With a network of renowned healthcare facilities, Manipal Hospital offers PFT services, equipped with the latest diagnostic tools.
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Narayana Health: Known for its high standards in patient care, Narayana Health provides pulmonary tests to assess various lung conditions.
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Fortis La Femme: Specializing in women’s health, Fortis offers PFTs, especially beneficial for expectant mothers and women at risk of lung diseases.
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Sakra Premium Clinic: Located in the heart of Bangalore, Sakra provides high-quality PFT services, along with a comprehensive approach to lung health.
Cost of Pulmonary Function Test in Bangalore
The cost of a Pulmonary Function Test in Bangalore typically ranges between ₹1,500 to ₹5,000 depending on the type of test and the healthcare provider. Specialized tests such as Diffusion Capacity or lung volume measurements may cost more. It’s always recommended to check with the clinic or hospital for accurate pricing.
FAQs About Pulmonary Function Test in Bangalore
1. How long does a Pulmonary Function Test take? A typical PFT takes about 30 to 60 minutes to complete, depending on the type of tests being conducted.
2. Is the Pulmonary Function Test painful? No, a PFT is a non-invasive and pain-free procedure. You may feel a little out of breath during certain parts of the test, but it is generally well-tolerated.
3. Do I need to prepare for a Pulmonary Function Test? Yes, avoid heavy meals, smoking, and using inhalers or bronchodilators before the test, as per your doctor’s instructions.
4. Can a Pulmonary Function Test diagnose asthma? Yes, a PFT is a key diagnostic tool for asthma, as it measures the airflow limitations characteristic of the condition.
5. Can I take the Pulmonary Function Test without a referral? In most cases, yes. However, it’s always best to consult your doctor before undergoing any diagnostic tests.
Conclusion
A Pulmonary Function Test is a crucial tool for diagnosing and monitoring respiratory health. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms like shortness of breath, cough, or wheezing, or simply want to assess your lung health, a PFT can provide valuable insights. If you're in Bangalore, there are several reputable healthcare providers offering this essential test, ensuring you get the care you need.
By being proactive with your lung health and undergoing regular check-ups, you can take control of your respiratory well-being. Do you need to schedule your Pulmonary Function Test today?
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