Pulmonary Function Test For Asthma in Bangalore | Accurate Diagnosis & Care

Introduction

Asthma affects millions worldwide, and getting the right diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment. If you're in Bangalore and suspect asthma or need to monitor your lung health, a Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) is a crucial diagnostic tool.

This article covers everything you need to know about pulmonary function testing for asthma in Bangalore, including test types, costs, top hospitals, and expert recommendations.

A Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) is a non-invasive procedure that evaluates how well your lungs are working. It measures lung capacity, airflow, and the ability to exchange gases. PFTs are critical in diagnosing and managing respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD, and other lung disorders.

Why is PFT Important for Asthma?

• Accurate Diagnosis: Helps differentiate asthma from other respiratory conditions.

• Severity Assessment: Determines how well your lungs are functioning.

• Treatment Monitoring: Tracks progress and response to asthma medications.

• Predicts Future Risk: Identifies lung function deterioration over time.

There are several types of PFTs used for diagnosing and monitoring asthma:

1. Spirometry

• Measures how much air you can inhale and exhale.

• Detects airway obstruction and airflow limitation.

• Commonly used for initial asthma diagnosis.

2. Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF) Test

• Measures how fast you can breathe out.

• Helps track asthma control over time.

• Often used for home monitoring.

3. Bronchoprovocation Test

• Involves inhaling a substance (methacholine or histamine) to trigger mild airway narrowing.

• Helps diagnose asthma in cases where spirometry is inconclusive.

4. Lung Volume Measurement (Plethysmography)

• Determines the total lung capacity.

• Useful for detecting restrictive lung diseases in addition to asthma.

5. Diffusion Capacity Test (DLCO)

• Measures how well oxygen passes from the lungs into the blood.

• Differentiates asthma from other lung conditions.

Bangalore is home to top hospitals and diagnostic centers equipped with state-of-the-art PFT testing facilities. Here are some of the best places:

Top Hospitals Offering PFT in Bangalore

1. Manipal Hospitals – Advanced pulmonary care and experienced pulmonologists.

2. Apollo Hospitals – Comprehensive asthma diagnosis and lung function testing.

3. Narayana Health – Offers detailed PFT assessments and asthma treatment.

4. Fortis Hospitals – Well-equipped for asthma testing and respiratory therapy.

5. St. John's Medical College Hospital – Affordable yet high-quality diagnostic services.

Best Diagnostic Centers for PFT in Bangalore

• Thyrocare Bengaluru – Offers affordable PFT packages.

• Vijaya Diagnostic Centre – Known for accurate PFT reports.

• Clumax Diagnostics – Provides various lung function tests.

• Medall Diagnostics – Trusted for precise asthma-related testing.

Cost of Pulmonary Function Test in Bangalore

The cost of a Pulmonary Function Test for asthma in Bangalore varies based on the type of test and the healthcare provider.

• Spirometry Test: ₹700 - ₹2,000

• Complete PFT Package: ₹2,000 - ₹5,000

• Bronchoprovocation Test: ₹3,000 - ₹7,000

• Lung Volume Test: ₹2,500 - ₹6,000

Insurance coverage may apply if prescribed by a doctor, so check with your healthcare provider.

To ensure accurate results, follow these preparation tips:

✅ Avoid Smoking – At least 4-6 hours before the test. ✅ No Heavy Meals – Eat light to prevent breathing discomfort. ✅ Stop Using Inhalers (If Advised) – Your doctor may ask you to avoid bronchodilators. ✅ Wear Comfortable Clothing – Avoid tight-fitting clothes that may restrict breathing. ✅ Stay Relaxed – Anxiety can affect breathing patterns.

• You'll be asked to breathe in and out through a mouthpiece connected to a machine.

• Some tests may require you to inhale medication to assess airway responsiveness.

• The procedure is painless and takes about 30-45 minutes.

• Results are analyzed by a pulmonologist, and a diagnosis is provided accordingly.

Your pulmonologist will evaluate key lung function parameters such as:

• FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second): Indicates airway obstruction severity.

• FVC (Forced Vital Capacity): Measures total lung capacity.

• PEF (Peak Expiratory Flow): Determines how quickly air is expelled.

Normal vs. Asthma-Indicated PFT Results:

• Normal: FEV1/FVC ratio above 80%.

• Mild Asthma: FEV1 between 60-80%.

• Moderate Asthma: FEV1 between 40-60%.

• Severe Asthma: FEV1 below 40%.

If you experience any of the following, you should get a Pulmonary Function Test for asthma in Bangalore:

• Frequent shortness of breath

• Wheezing or noisy breathing

• Persistent coughing, especially at night

• Chest tightness or discomfort

• Increased use of asthma medication

Early diagnosis helps in better asthma control and prevention of complications.

Conclusion

A Pulmonary Function Test for asthma in Bangalore is a reliable and essential tool for diagnosing and managing asthma. Whether you need an initial diagnosis or regular monitoring, Bangalore offers top-quality healthcare facilities to ensure accurate assessments.