Symptoms that suggest Asthma include wheezing, dyspnea, chest tightness, or coughing when exposed to cold air, after exercise, during respiratory infections or after exposure to allergens and other triggers. A history these symptoms increases the probability of asthma. Further testing will be recommended by your doctor.
Pulmonary Function Testing | Exercise Challenge | Methacholine Challenge
Pulmonary Function Testing
Pulmonary function tests measure the function of the lungs in order to determine the causes of shortness of breath. Pulmonary function testing can confirm lung disorders including:
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Emphysema
Pulmonary function tests will help your doctor diagnose a range of respiratory diseases. These tests are critical because most lung conditions can be treated successfully if detected early enough.
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Exercise Challenge
When you have an exercise challenge test, your breathing (in and out) will be measured by a Spirometry test. Your breathing will be measured again after you exert yourself on a treadmill or exercise bike. An exercise challenge test will determine what effect exercise has on airflow, and any findings will need to be further reviewed.
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Methacholine Challenge
Methacholine challenge testing tests airway responsiveness and is most often used after a Spirometry, performed before and after the administration of a bronchodilator, has not established or eliminated an Asthma diagnosis.
Methacholine challenge testing is useful in excluding a diagnosis of Asthma or providing more evidence that Asthma is a leading possibility of the symptoms one is experiencing.
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