Patients with respiratory symptoms such as a cough or asthma may undergo tests depending upon the type of symptoms they experience. These include;
A simple X-ray to image the bones and soft tissues in the chest including the lungs and heart.
Bronchoscopy is a procedure to look directly at the airways in the lungs using a small flexible camera called a bronchoscope.
CT scan is now a routine investigation. It uses X-rays and computer technology to create images of the body.
A lung scan is an imaging test to look at your lungs and help diagnose certain lung problems. A lung scan may also be used to see how well treatment is working.
Peak flow measures air flowing in and out of the lungs.
Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are non-invasive tests that assess how well the lungs are functioning.
Pulse oximetry measures oxygen level (oxygen saturation) in the blood.
Page reviewed by: Mr Nicholas Boyle BM MS FRCS 01/11/22