Find care near me Key Points
- The article discusses six reasons why someone might need an asthma test, including symptoms of asthma, allergies, family history of asthma, GERD, sinusitis, and triggered symptoms.
- The asthma test process includes a review of medical history, a physical examination, and several tests such as spirometry, a challenge test, and an exhaled nitric oxide test.
- Some individuals, such as those who recently had surgery or a heart attack, or those with severe respiratory infections, may not be suitable for an asthma test.
- The test may cause some side effects like faintness and, in rare cases, a collapsed lung. It is important to avoid smoking, caffeine, and exercise before the test, and some medications may need to be stopped.
- Communication with your doctor is crucial before, during, and after the test, and the article provides a list of questions to ask your doctor about the asthma test.
6 Reasons Why You Would Need an Asthma Test
1. Asthma symptoms
An asthma test is a series of tests and exams that help your doctor determine if you have asthma.[1] These are several different tests and exams that are usually done over the course of one appointment. The main reason for an asthma test is because you have been experiencing the symptoms of asthma, which include but are not limited to: coughing, wheezing, breathing issues or difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, and tightness of the chest.[2]
2. Allergic symptoms
Allergies are one of the most common causes of asthma. If you are allergic to something or you are experiencing the symptoms of allergies, it is likely your doctor will want to check you for asthma with an asthma test. Although allergic asthma is common, it can cause serious, even life-threatening symptoms.
3. Family history of asthma
If your parents or someone else in your family has a history of asthma and you start experiencing symptoms that could be related to the condition, your doctor may want to do an asthma test to determine if you have asthma. A family history of asthma and other breathing problems can increase the risk of asthma.[3]
4. GERD
Also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, GERD is a digestive disorder that causes chronic issues with acid reflux, indigestion, and heartburn. 75 percent of patients who suffer from asthma also have GERD, which is why a doctor might want to check you for one of these disorders if you are experiencing the other.[4]
5. Sinusitis
Sinusitis, or a sinus infection, can also be connected with asthma. About half of those with asthma experience chronic sinusitis as well.[5] As such, your doctor will probably want to check you for asthma if you constantly have issues with sinusitis.
6. Triggered symptoms
While you will likely deal with symptoms triggered by certain allergens if you have allergic asthma, those with asthma might also experience triggers of other kinds. These can be issues that are not considered to be allergens but can still cause shortness of breath, trouble breathing, wheezing, and coughing in asthma patients, including exercise, cold air, and cigarette smoke.[6]
Understanding an Asthma Test
An asthma test will usually start with your doctor discussing your medical history.[6] Your doctor might ask you if anyone in your family suffers from asthma or hay fever and if you have any issues that have already been diagnosed that go hand-in-hand with asthma. Finally, your doctor will ask you about your day-to-day experiences, such as if you have a pet, are often exposed to chemicals, and whether your work causes you to experience any exposure issues.
Next, it will be time for the physical exam. Your doctor will need to examine your skin to see if you have any signs of allergic disorders like hives or eczema. The doctor will then examine your throat, nose, and airways before using a stethoscope to listen to your breathing. If you show signs of wheezing and other asthmatic symptoms, your doctor will be able to tell.[6]
Finally, your doctor might want to perform several tests. The spirometry test is the test most often used for those over five years of age. In this test, you will take a deep breath and breathe out into a tube. This test will measure the amount of air you are able to exhale as well as how fast you are able to do it.
Your doctor may also want to perform a challenge test, where you will be asked to exercise in order to see if physical activity triggers asthmatic symptoms. You may also be asked to perform the exhaled nitric oxide test that measures the amount of nitric oxide gas in your breath as you exhale. High levels of nitric oxide gas could mean you have asthma.[6]
Risks of Getting an Asthma Test
1. Poor candidates
Some individuals are poor candidates for an asthma test, as the rapid breathing in and out can create problematic results. Poor candidates can include those who have recently had surgery, those who have recently had a heart attack, and those with a severe respiratory infection.[7]
2. Faintness
Fainting can occur from these tests because many of them require physical exertion or breathing quickly in and out. If you do have asthma, you have an increased risk of fainting or becoming dizzy from an asthma test.
3. Collapsed lung
Rarely, an asthma test can result in a collapsed lung.[7] Talk to your doctor about whether you could be at risk of this side effect, although it rarely occurs.
What to Expect with an Asthma Test
1. Preparing for the test
You will need to prepare for the test beforehand by avoiding smoking, caffeine, and exercise for the day before the test.[8] In addition, you may need to stop taking certain medications, as they could affect the results of the test. Talk to your doctor about any other preparations you will need to take.
2. Avoiding side effects
Because some of the elements of an asthma test can have certain risks associated with them, it is important to always tell your doctor if you are experiencing any issues before, during, or after the testing process.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Your Asthma Test
- Is it safe for me to undergo an asthma exam?
- Are there any medications I should stop taking or other preparations I should make for the exam?
- Am I just being tested for asthma or for other conditions as well?
- Are there ways I can avoid the potential risks of an asthma exam?
Asthma Test May Also be Known as:
- Asthma exam
- Pulmonary test
- Pulmonary function test
- PFT
References
Frequently asked questions
What are some reasons why I might need an asthma test?
You might need an asthma test if you're experiencing symptoms of asthma or allergies, have a family history of asthma, suffer from GERD or sinusitis, or have symptoms triggered by certain situations.What does the asthma test process involve?
The asthma test process involves discussing your medical history, undergoing a physical exam, and taking several tests such as spirometry, a challenge test, and an exhaled nitric oxide test.Are there any people who should not take an asthma test?
Yes, individuals who recently had surgery or a heart attack, or those with severe respiratory infections, may not be suitable candidates for an asthma test.Are there any side effects or risks associated with an asthma test?
Yes, the test may cause faintness and, in rare cases, a collapsed lung.What should I avoid before taking an asthma test?
Before the test, you should avoid smoking, consuming caffeine, and exercising. You may also need to stop taking certain medications.Why is communication with my doctor important in the asthma test process?
Communication with your doctor is important to discuss any issues or concerns you may have before, during, or after the test. This can help ensure the test is as effective and safe as possible for you.What are some questions I should ask my doctor about the asthma test?
The article suggests asking about the benefits and risks of the test, how to prepare for it, what to expect during and after the test, and how the results will be used to manage your health.Can the asthma test result in serious complications?
While it's rare, the test can potentially cause a collapsed lung. It's crucial to discuss any concerns with your doctor before undergoing the test.
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