Lung Function Tests for Elderly People

Lung function tests are used to look for the cause of breathing problems (like shortness of breath). These tests are used to check for conditions such as asthma, lung tissue scarring, sarcoidosis and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

Lung function tests for elderly seniors also are used to see how well treatments for breathing problems, such as asthma medicines, are working. The tests may be used to check on whether a condition, such lung tissue scarring, is getting worse.

Lung function tests measure:

• How much air your elderly parent can take into your lungs. This amount is compared to that of other people the same age, height, and sex. This allows the doctor to see whether your elderly parent is in the normal range. 
• How much air your senior loved one can blow out of your lungs and how fast they can do it. 
• How well the senior's lungs deliver oxygen to the blood. 
• How strong the elderly personn's breathing muscles are.

Breathing Tests

The breathing tests most often used are: 

Spirometry. This test measures how much air you can breathe in and out. It also measures how fast you can blow air out. 

Peak flow meter. This meter is a small, hand-held device that’s sometimes used by people who have asthma. The meter helps track their breathing. 

Lung volume measurement. This test, in addition to spirometry, measures how much air you have left in your lungs after you breathe out completely. 

Lung diffusing capacity. This test measures how well oxygen passes from your lungs to your bloodstream. These tests may not show what’s causing breathing problems. Other tests, such as a cardiopulmonary exercise test, also may be done. This test measures how well your lungs and heart work while you exercise on a treadmill or bicycle.

Tests

 Oxygen Level Pulse oximetry and arterial blood gas are two tests used to measure the oxygen level in the blood. They're also called blood oxygen tests. Pulse oximetry measures blood oxygen levels using a special light. During an arterial blood gas test, your doctor inserts a small needle into an artery, usually in your wrist, and takes a sample of blood.

The oxygen level of the blood sample is then checked. Outlook Lung function tests usually are painless and rarely cause side effects. You may feel some discomfort during the arterial blood gas test when the needle is inserted into the artery.

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) provides global leadership for a research, training, and education program to promote the prevention and treatment of heart, lung, and blood diseases and enhance the health of all individuals so that they can live longer and more fulfilling lives. For more information visit the NHLBI website.