Private Lung Function Test London

There are several reasons for performing these tests such as to help make a diagnosis and to quantify the degree of lung damage.

• If you've been having breathing problems.

• If you have symptoms, or if your doctor feels you're at an increased risk of developing a particular lung condition.

• To assess the progress of your existing breathing condition by comparing these tests with previous results.

• To see how your breathing condition improves with different treatments and to help assess fitness before surgery.

What does a typical lung function test involve?

A Full Lung FunctionTest at OneWelbeck includes the following assessments:

• Spirometry

• Lung Volume Measurement

• Gas Transfer Testing

Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) testing, while useful in diagnosing and managing asthma, is a separate test that does not form part of a Full Lung Function Test.

Spirometry

This test measures the flow and volume of air through the airways into the lungs. You will be asked to take a deep breath in and then blow out as hard and fast as possible into a device called a spirometer. This helps to identify any obstructions in the airways and reductions in the capacity of the lungs.

Spirometry can be performed as a standalone test for £175, and as part of a ‘Bronchodilator Reversibility’ which tests the effectiveness of an inhaler on opening up the airways for £290.

Lung Volume 

Lung volume measurement measures the total capacity of the lung. During this test, you will sit inside a transparent glass box while breathing into a mouthpiece. You will then inhale until your lungs are full then breathe all the way out until they are empty. This test helps to identify if there is a reduction in your total lung capacity.

Gas Transfer 

This test measures the flow of oxygen into the lungs and the efficiency of its transfer into the blood. During this test you will breathe in a harmless gas through a mouthpiece, hold your breath for ~10 seconds, and then exhale. The gas will then be analysed to indicate how much oxygen has transferred through the lungs into the blood.

The self pay price for this test is £500

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Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) Test

We also offer Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) testing, which measures the level of nitric oxide in your breath. During this test, you will breathe at a consistent pace into a mouthpiece for ~10 seconds. This measures inflammation in the airways, and is particularly useful in supporting asthma diagnosis and management.

The self pay price for this test is £127.

Are there any risks to lung function testing?

Whilst performing lung function tests, some individuals can experience light headedness and fatigue due to repeatedly breathing in and out maximally. However, our physiologists are professionally trained to ensure you can conduct the tests in a safe environment. There is naturally some concern about undertaking lung function and the spread of infection. For this reason, strict protocols are in place regarding which patients we test, cleaning of equipment between patients and ventilation of our testing rooms. If you have any concerns regarding the environment you will be tested in, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team.