Shortness of breath. Persistent coughing. A tight chest that doesn’t quite ease. For many Australians, these symptoms signal more than just a passing cold, they can be the first signs of chronic respiratory conditions.
“Patients often ask why they’re struggling to catch their breath when their GP says their chest sounds clear,” explains the team at SmartCare Diagnostics, Brisbane’s bulk-billed respiratory testing specialists. “That’s where lung function tests come in, they give us precise insights into how the lungs are really performing.”
What Exactly Are Lung Function Tests?
Lung function tests, also called pulmonary function tests (PFTs), are non-invasive, painless assessments that measure:
- Lung capacity (how much air your lungs can hold)
- Airflow (how quickly you can breathe air in and out)
- Gas exchange (how well oxygen moves from lungs into blood)
At SmartCare Diagnostics, advanced GE technology is used to provide accurate results. Tests are tailored to the patient’s symptoms and may include:
- Spirometry
- Gas transfer tests (DLCO)
- Lung volume measurements
Spirometry: Measuring the Breath Itself
Think of spirometry as the “gold standard” of lung testing. Patients breathe into a small machine that measures two key things:
- FVC (Forced Vital Capacity): Total air you can blow out after a deep breath.
- FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second): How much air you can push out in one second.
- FEV1/FVC Ratio: A critical indicator of airflow obstruction.
A low FEV1/FVC ratio may suggest asthma or COPD, while a reduced FVC can point to restrictive lung diseases like interstitial lung disease.
Did You Know?
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 8.5 million Australians live with chronic respiratory conditions. Accurate testing is critical for early diagnosis and effective management.
Lung Volume Measurements: Spotting Hidden Patterns
Some conditions cause lungs to trap too much air (hyperinflation), while others restrict expansion (fibrosis). By measuring total lung capacity (TLC) and functional residual capacity (FRC), these tests reveal whether the lungs are over- or under-inflated.
Why Choose SmartCare Diagnostics?
Patients often worry about accessibility, wait times, or whether results will be reliable. SmartCare Diagnostics addresses these concerns directly:
- Bulk-Billed Services: All tests bulk-billed with a valid referral.
- Fast Turnaround: Appointments usually available within 2 weeks; urgent cases in 24–48 hours. Results are usually available within 72 hours.
- Expert Team: Respiratory specialists and scientists following Australian standards.
- Advanced Technology: State-of-the-art GE systems for precision and reliability.
- Convenient Clinics: Locations across North Lakes, Springfield, Taringa, Capalaba, and Upper Mt Gravatt, with easy access and parking.
Common Patient Questions
“Do I need to prepare?”
Avoid smoking or heavy exercise before your test. Bring your inhalers, they may be used to check medication effectiveness.
“What does the test feel like?”
It’s non-invasive and typically takes 30–60 minutes. You’ll be guided by a respiratory scientist the whole way.
“When will I get results?”
Your doctor usually receives the report within 72 hours. If there’s an urgent finding, it’s flagged immediately.
SmartCare Diagnostics: Not Just Another Testing Centre
Lung function tests aren’t just numbers on a chart, they’re a window into how your lungs are working, and a vital step in diagnosing conditions like asthma, COPD, and interstitial lung disease.
At SmartCare Diagnostics, patients across Brisbane have access to bulk-billed, accurate, and timely respiratory testing, supported by leading technology and trusted expertise.
Take the first step towards better breathing. Book your lung function test with SmartCare Diagnostics today. Call 1300 358 706 or request an appointment online.
Why wait or pay too much for diagnostic tests?