Diagnosis and treatment are two crucial factors for delivering a better quality of life for Atlanta asthma patients. As part of this process, a procedure like spirometry testing is widely recognized as a key diagnostic method. While spirometry is frequently used, asthma doctors often employ a combination of assessments and testing to make a clinical diagnosis. So, just what does an overview of the asthma testing process look like?
Professional Testing Process to Identify Asthma
Physical Examination
A physical exam will involve an analysis of the nose and throat. Your doctor will also listen to your breathing to check for signs of wheezing or whistling. And since allergies are common triggers for asthma, finding skin rashes or hives could indicate an allergy that requires treatment.
Medical History
Your doctor will ask a number of questions to determine whether your symptoms are related to asthma or another condition. Other factors also play a role in a diagnosis, including medications you take, substances you encounter regularly (smoke, dust, mold, chemical fumes and so on), signs of allergies, family history of asthma and related topics.
Asthma Testing Processes
The information gathered by your doctor will be used in the testing process. For example, to reduce the impact of this condition you may need to get tested for allergic asthma – and tackle any allergies. In most cases, you will undergo a lung function test to identify asthma.
Spirometry Test
This simple test assesses lung function to determine if your bronchial tubes have narrowed. First, you will be asked to take a deep breath and exhale into a tube. The spirometer records both the volume and speed of your exhalation to compare with expected healthy results. Your doctor may also request a further spirometry test – one administered after taking a bronchodilator. This type of safe medication will open up the airways, allowing your doctor to compare testing results and see what has changed.
Peak Flow Meter Test
A peak flow meter test is a less sophisticated method of testing lung function that can still assist in making a diagnosis. Patients breathe into the device and a reading is delivered. Your doctor may request that you record periodic readings from a peak flow meter to analyze the state of your breathing. This approach can help with diagnosing asthma and monitoring whether the symptoms are getting better or worse.
Challenge Tests
A challenge test involves triggering asthma symptoms and recording lung function using a spirometry test. For example, when an allergy is believed to be a trigger, the allergen may be used to intentionally cause a reaction so that before-and-after results can be analyzed. Due to the risks associated with an asthma attack, a challenge test will only be performed by a trained professional.
Get Reliable Asthma Testing In Atlanta
If you are experiencing asthma symptoms it’s important to speak with a specialist. At the Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center, we can diagnose asthma and provide effective treatment. Our centers are located in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. For a consultation, call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment now.