How is COPD diagnosed

[LindaNY]

Here is a great list of all the tests they use to diagnosis this disease.

Click on all of the links to learn more.

www.njc.org/disease-info/diseases/copd/mgmt/diagnosed/index.aspx

Just some snippets from the article

How is COPD diagnosed?
The first step in diagnosing emphysema and chronic bronchitis is a good physical evaluation. Following the evaluation may be a number of tests to evaluate your breathing and other aspects of your health. These tests may be necessary because other diseases and/or disorders can be confused with COPD.

Detailed Medical History and Physical Exam
Breathing, Exercise, and Oxygen Tests (Pulmonary Function Tests)
X-Rays and CT (CAT) Scans
Other Tests

Detailed Medical History and Physical Exam
This is an important first step in the diagnosis of COPD. A doctor will conduct a complete physical exam and ask you questions about your lifestyle including your family, your job, your habits, your hobbies, your current medications, and your symptoms.

Breathing, Exercise, and Oxygen Tests (Pulmonary Function Tests)

Spirometry
This simple test, called spirometry, measures airflow into and out of the lungs. This indicates whether or not there is airway obstruction. Spirometry test results are useful in making the diagnosis of a specific lung disorder. Even more important, yearly spirometry measurements help to detect lung disease at an early stage when lifestyle changes and treatment may help forestall future problems.

Arterial Blood Gas Testing
Arterial blood gas is a blood sample test ordered by your physician to evaluate measurements of oxygen level, carbon dioxide (effectiveness of respiration), and several other parameters. Generally, it is indicated when your physician needs to evaluate the effectiveness of your breathing.

Bronchial Provocation Test
The bronchial provocation test evaluates how sensitive the airways in your lungs are. A spirometry breathing test is done before and after you inhale a spray such as methacholine. The spirometry results are compared before and after you inhale the spray to see what changes there are in your breathing. You will be given additional information in PPU at the time of the test.

to learn more, click the link to the article.