PFT Test (Pulmonary Function Test): Purpose, Procedure, Cost & Results
Breathing problems like asthma, chronic cough, or shortness of breath can seriously affect daily life. To identify the root cause, doctors often recommend a PFT Test (Pulmonary Function Test). This simple, non-invasive test helps measure how well your lungs are working and plays a vital role in diagnosing and monitoring lung conditions.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the PFT Test – its purpose, procedure, preparation, risks, cost, and results.
What is a PFT Test?
PFT (Pulmonary Function Test) is a group of tests that check your lung capacity, airflow, and oxygen exchange. It helps doctors understand:
How much air your lungs can hold.
How quickly you can exhale.
How efficiently oxygen moves from your lungs into your blood.
Simply put, it is a health checkup for your lungs.
Why is a PFT Test Done?
Your doctor may suggest a PFT test for:
Diagnosing lung diseases such as Asthma, COPD, Pulmonary Fibrosis, Bronchitis.
Pre-surgery evaluation (especially before heart or lung surgery).
Monitoring treatment effectiveness in patients with chronic lung problems.
Checking lung function for people exposed to dust, smoke, or chemicals.
Evaluating unexplained breathing issues like wheezing, chest tightness, or chronic cough.
Types of PFT Tests
There are different kinds of pulmonary function tests. Some of the common ones include:
Spirometry – Measures airflow and how quickly you can breathe in and out.
Lung Volume Test – Checks the total capacity of your lungs.
Diffusion Capacity Test (DLCO) – Measures how well oxygen passes from your lungs into your blood.
Body Plethysmography – A detailed test for lung volume using a small cabin.
6-Minute Walk Test – Measures endurance and oxygen levels during walking.
Who Should Get a PFT Test?
A pulmonary function test is especially useful for:
People with asthma, COPD, or chronic bronchitis.
Smokers or ex-smokers.
Individuals with persistent cough, wheezing, or breathlessness.
Workers exposed to chemicals, dust, or pollution.
Patients scheduled for major surgeries.
How is a PFT Test Done? (Step-by-Step Procedure)
The test is simple, painless, and usually takes 30–60 minutes.
You’ll sit comfortably with a nose clip.
A mouthpiece connected to a machine is provided.
The technician instructs you to inhale deeply and exhale forcefully several times.
In some cases, you may be given medicine (bronchodilator) to repeat the test and check how your lungs respond.
Preparation Before the Test
To ensure accurate results, follow these guidelines:
Avoid smoking for at least 4–6 hours before the test.
Do not eat a heavy meal right before the test.
Wear loose, comfortable clothes.
Follow your doctor’s instructions about stopping inhalers or medicines.
Risks & Precautions
A PFT test is generally safe, but some people may feel:
Dizziness.
Mild shortness of breath.
Temporary coughing.
It is not recommended for patients who recently had a heart attack, severe chest pain, or unstable health condition.
Understanding PFT Test Results
The results of PFT are usually given as percentages compared to normal values for your age, height, and gender. Key terms include:
FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume) – How much air you exhale in one second.
FVC (Forced Vital Capacity) – Total air exhaled after a deep breath.
FEV1/FVC ratio – Helps identify lung disease type.
Abnormal Results Indicate:
Obstructive diseases (Asthma, COPD) – Difficulty exhaling air.
Restrictive diseases (Pulmonary fibrosis, obesity) – Reduced lung expansio
PFT Test Cost in India
The cost of a PFT test in India varies depending on the hospital, city, and facilities. On average:
₹500 – ₹2000 per test.
In metro cities and advanced diagnostic centers, it may cost slightly more.
The PFT Test is one of the most effective ways to detect and monitor lung health. Whether you have asthma, COPD, or frequent breathing issues, this test can provide valuable insights. Early diagnosis through PFT helps in better treatment and improved quality of life.
If you experience frequent shortness of breath or coughing, consult your doctor and book a PFT Test today to keep your lungs healthy.