Lung Function and Blood Oxygen
Lung Function Test
The aim of the lung function test is to measure lung volume and the size and flexibility of the airways by simply blowing into a spirometer linked to a computer.
Exercise is the best way of optimising our lung capabilities and significant improvements can be seen when individuals increase their level of exercise.
The extent of asthma can be assessed far better than on a basic peak flow. Early signs of possible airway problems caused by dust, paint spray and chemicals can be detected in the early stages prior to symptoms. This enables individuals to then take measures such as better masks to avoid long term problems.
Oxygen level Test
An oxygen saturation probe is a device used in hospitals to measure the level of oxygen in the blood. This is an excellent measure of how well the lungs are performing in the transporting of oxygen from the lungs to the blood supply.
The test consists of placing a clip over a finger tip. A light inside the clip shines through the nailbed where there are very small blood vessels. The light consists of two wavelengths, one of which measures the haemoglobin in the blood with oxygen attached (oxyhaemoglobin), the other wavelength measures haemoglobin with no oxygen attached to it. Within a few seconds it calculates to show what percentage of haemoglobin cells are oxygenated (Saturation of oxygen level).