Conveniently Located Steps from the Number 6 Subway 33rd Street Stop
Skip to main content

How Do You Diagnose COPD?

How Do You Diagnose COPD?

The formal diagnosis of COPD is made with breathing testing or what we call “pulmonary function testing”. This is a series of tests which measures how fast air flows through the bronchial tubes, how much air one exhales with a full and forced exhalation, and how fast that air is flowing is the most basic measurement. This test is done by what we call spyrometry. Simple spyrometry can be done in many or most primary care physicians’ offices.

As testing has become more sophisticated, and testing equipment, physiology testing is available in the office of a lung specialist, measurement can be done of the airflow in the smaller bronchial tubes, the very small bronchial tubes, measure how much air is left in the lung at the end of somebody’s most effective exhalation. When too much air is left in your lung, that’s called air trapping. It is believed that air trapping, or too much air in the lung because of the small bronchial tubes, influences your ability to breath comfortably and to exercise.

We measure how your oxygen is. If that is low at rest and/or with exercise and we can measure how gas gets from the air sack into the blood vessel, into the blood stream, which is really what your lung is all about. Your lung is there to get oxygen and carbon dioxide out, so depending on the situation and the patient and the clinical setting, there can be more or less testing done. But a screening test, that should be done really for every patient, it is believed as part of a well visit, especially patients who smoke, who have any other risk factors, patients with breathlessness, patients with cough. That can be done by a primary care physician and then referred to a pulmonary physician if need be, for further evaluation.

History, getting information from the patient, asking carefully about their breathing, querying carefully about coughing, about tendency to get chest colds, about wheezing, about why one can’t exercise as you think you should when you’re in the gym. Many people attribute it just to being de-conditioned and out of shape when, in fact, there is some lung disease present. So an index of suspicion is always very important.

Our AffiliationAwards and RecognitionInformational Videos

You Might Also Enjoy...

The Importance of Getting Your Flu Shot Early

The Importance of Getting Your Flu Shot Early

Another flu season is upon us, and now is the time to get your flu shot. Learn why early vaccination is key to navigating flu season, staying healthy, and avoiding the serious complications that the flu can present.
Who Is Eligible for the RSV Vaccine?

Who Is Eligible for the RSV Vaccine?

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common viral infection. While many people get cold-like symptoms, infants and older adults are at higher risk of more serious complications. The RSV vaccine offers extra protection, and you could be eligible.
How Cystic Fibrosis Affects Your Lungs

How Cystic Fibrosis Affects Your Lungs

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that has significant implications for your respiratory health. Thick mucus increases your risk of lung infection and breathing problems, but proactive care can help you enjoy your best possible health.

How Digestive Problems Affect the Respiratory System

Your body contains a network of complex, interconnected systems. And while it may seem like your digestive system and respiratory system are entirely separate, the truth is that the health of one can affect the other.

The Link Between Stress and Asthma

Common asthma triggers include pollen, dust, exercise, and more. But did you know that your emotions can trigger asthma symptoms, too? Stress causes changes in your body that may make asthma worse — and here’s what you can do about it.

Are Benign Lung Nodules Dangerous to My Health?

Did you recently learn you have a lung nodule? It’s normal to be concerned, but the good news is that most lung nodules are benign and don’t immediately threaten your health. Find out what causes them and how to protect your health.