Introduction
A Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) is a crucial diagnostic tool used to assess lung health and detect respiratory disorders such as asthma, COPD, and fibrosis. If you're in Bangalore and experiencing breathing difficulties, a PFT can help diagnose the issue early.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover:
What is a Pulmonary Function Test?
Why is it done?
Types of PFTs
Best diagnostic centers in Bangalore
Cost of PFT in Bangalore
How to prepare for the test
Understanding your results
By the end, you’ll have all the information needed to make an informed decision about getting a Pulmonary Function Test in Bangalore.
What is a Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)?
A Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) is a non-invasive procedure that measures how well your lungs work. It evaluates:
Lung capacity – How much air your lungs can hold
Airflow rates – How quickly you can inhale and exhale
Gas exchange efficiency – How well oxygen enters your blood
PFTs help diagnose conditions like:
✔ Asthma
✔ Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
✔ Pulmonary fibrosis
✔ Bronchiectasis
✔ Lung infections
Why is a Pulmonary Function Test Done?
Doctors recommend a PFT if you experience:
Shortness of breath
Chronic cough
Wheezing
Chest tightness
History of smoking
Exposure to lung irritants (pollution, chemicals)
It’s also used to:
Monitor lung disease progression
Assess pre-surgical lung function
Evaluate treatment effectiveness
Types of Pulmonary Function Tests
1. Spirometry
The most common PFT, it measures:
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) – Total air exhaled forcefully
Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV1) – Air exhaled in the first second
Used for: Diagnosing asthma, COPD, and restrictive lung diseases.
2. Lung Volume Measurement
Measures total lung capacity using:
Body Plethysmography (gold standard)
Helium Dilution Test
Used for: Detecting restrictive lung disorders like pulmonary fibrosis.
3. Diffusion Capacity Test
Checks how well oxygen passes from lungs to blood.
Used for: Diagnosing emphysema, pulmonary hypertension.
4. Bronchial Provocation Test
Assesses airway responsiveness to triggers (e.g., methacholine).
Used for: Confirming asthma.
5. Exercise Stress Test
Evaluates lung function during physical activity.
Used for: Diagnosing exercise-induced asthma.
Best Diagnostic Centers for Pulmonary Function Test
Bangalore has several reputed labs offering accurate PFTs. Here are some top choices:
1. Apollo Hospitals
? Locations: Bannerghatta Road, Jayanagar, Seshadripuram
? Cost: ₹1,500 – ₹3,000
✔ NABL-accredited
✔ Advanced PFT equipment
2. Manipal Hospitals
? Locations: Old Airport Road, Whitefield
? Cost: ₹1,800 – ₹3,200
✔ Expert pulmonologists
✔ Comprehensive lung testing
3. Fortis Hospitals
? Locations: Bannerghatta Road, Cunningham Road
? Cost: ₹1,600 – ₹2,800
✔ State-of-the-art diagnostics
4. Aster CMI Hospital
? Location: Hebbal
? Cost: ₹1,700 – ₹3,000
✔ Specialized respiratory care
5. Thyrocare & Dr. Lal PathLabs
? Multiple locations across Bangalore
? Cost: ₹1,200 – ₹2,500
✔ Affordable and reliable
Cost of Pulmonary Function Test in Bangalore
The PFT cost in Bangalore varies based on:
Type of test (basic spirometry vs. full PFT panel)
Hospital vs. standalone lab
Insurance coverage
| Test Type | Price Range (₹) |
|---|---|
| Spirometry | 1,000 – 1,800 |
| Full PFT Panel | 2,000 – 3,500 |
| Lung Volume Test | 2,500 – 4,000 |
| Diffusion Capacity | 1,500 – 2,500 |
Note: Some hospitals offer discounts if booked online.
How to Prepare for a Pulmonary Function Test
To ensure accurate results:
✅ Avoid smoking for 24 hours before the test
✅ Skip heavy meals 2 hours before
✅ Wear loose clothing
✅ Inform your doctor about medications (some may affect results)
During the test:
You’ll breathe into a mouthpiece connected to a spirometer
Follow technician instructions (inhale deeply, exhale forcefully)
The test takes 15-45 minutes
Understanding Your PFT Results
Your doctor will interpret results based on:
FEV1/FVC Ratio (Normal: >70%)
FVC (Normal: 80-120% predicted)
TLC (Total Lung Capacity)
Abnormal results may indicate:
? Obstructive Lung Disease (e.g., COPD, Asthma) – Low FEV1/FVC
? Restrictive Lung Disease (e.g., Fibrosis) – Low FVC, Normal FEV1/FVC
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is PFT painful?
No, it’s non-invasive and painless.
2. How long does a PFT take?
Between 15 to 45 minutes.
3. Can I eat before a PFT?
Avoid heavy meals 2 hours before.
4. Are there risks involved?
Minimal—some may feel lightheaded from forceful breathing.
5. Does insurance cover PFT?
Yes, most health plans cover PFT if medically necessary.
Conclusion
A Pulmonary Function Test in Bangalore is essential for diagnosing and managing lung conditions. With top hospitals like Apollo, Manipal, and Fortis offering advanced testing, you can get accurate results at affordable prices.
