Lung function testing
When you come for your clinic visit it is usually possible to check simple tests of lung function.
This is called spirometry and does require forceful breathing, so be prepared!
It measures the volume of air that you can blow from your lungs and compares it to what we would expect somebody of similar age and height to blow.
Oxygen level check
Your oxygen level can also be checked.
If you have normal lungs normally the top figure on the machine is 94% or greater (in the picture below it is 98%).
The lower figure is your resting pulse.
More detailed lung function testing
Other tests can be useful e.g. measurement of gas transfer, a 6-minute walk test, cardiopulmonary exercise testing.
This used to be possible at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary (as a private patient of course), but this is no longer the case unfortunately.
If you do need very detailed lung function tests as this then you may need seen outwith Aberdeen or alternatively your GP can refer you to me as a NHS patient.
Most of the time simple breathing tests combined with other tests are all that is needed though.