[Surferboy]

I got a letter in from my hospital today with an appointment to have a "Lung Function Test".

Is this a normal procedure for all Lupus patients? Or would the hospital only ask for this test if they felt something was wrong from my bloods or urine test?

 

[sjink]

HI

It was part of the standard checks for me when I registered with my rheumy. And chest xray.

Best to have all the tests they offer is my motto.

Hope this helps
Take care
Sara

 

[helloos]

I had it done because of a persistant cough and found out asthma when I didn't even think I had it all that bad.

So if you have some symptoms that related to pain, breathing, coughing, etc. they might have ordered because of that.

Good luck with it !

 

[Joandublin]

Hi Surferboy

I also had a Lung Function Test and Chest Xray early on in my diagnosis. Im sure Rheumatology Departments vary from hospital to hospital in what is standard practice but it sounds like your one is being very thorough which is great. It also gives you baseline information to measure any changes that might happen down the road.

The only other reason I can think that they would order it is if you were complaining of shortness of breath or had a blood gas analysis test (this is taken from the radial artery near the wrist and you would probably remember it if you got it done). This blood test can determine the oxygen levels in the blood.

I think you should be prepared for lots of tests to come. As Sara says, its best to take whatever tests they offer. It gives you a good foundation for moving forward.

Best of luck with it. Its a painless test.

Cheers
Joan:rose:

 

[Surferboy]

Thanks guys

I think/hope this may just be a precautionary thing as I don't really have a shortness of breath nor have I had a blood gas analysis done.

 

[Tom]

If for nothing else, it's always good to have a baseline for later on.

 

[lazylegs]

My rheumy ordered one as soon as he diagnosed me. I have Crest and muscle weakness and he wanted to see if there was any affect on the lungs.

I think your doctor is trying to get a complete picture with all the tests he has ordered thus far.

Take care,
Lazylegs

 

[lin]

i too have them on a regulary basis, and see the lung spec once every 6 months.... so dont worry it can be normal

Lin x

 

[Surferboy]

Thanks guys

 

[Gerri54]

Hi I am new here. I've had the Lung function test. Scaring was found and mild COPD. (Never smoked a day in my life.) I have bronchial asthma, and severe sleep apnea.

I am not labelled with Lupus yet. I have many symptoms. I have been diagnosed with Sjogrens. Being investigated for Celiac, Lupus, and RA.

Hugs

Gerri

 

[KarolH]

Hey Surfer,

Have you had your lung testing?....if so how did it go?

I have had 2 done before previous major surgeries and failed both horribly.

The test itself is painless. Good luck and let us know how you go.:wink2:

 

[Surferboy]

Hi Karol. Had the test done today. Now just waiting for my next rhumy appointment for the results.

Absolutely painless. But I feel I did a lot worse than I thought I would Felt like I had now blow what-so-ever

Thanks for the good luck -x-

 

[gingertoni]

I am amazed was just about to do a search on this test when I saw this thread, I have the Lung Function test due 12/09 (only taken 4 months to organise!)

Anyway, after being plagued with shortness of breath on and off for years with chest x-rays always coming back clear I really feel positive that this is a step in the right direction in them working out what is going on!

Thank you.