Diagnosis of COPD

Spirometry is among the first, and one of the most noninvasive, tests used to diagnose lung diseases or disorders, including COPD. In this test, a machine called a spirometer measures how much air you can breathe in, and then how much and how forcefully you can exhale that air back out in a set matter of seconds. The test measures how well the lungs work.

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An arterial blood gas test is one of the tests used for COPD diagnosis. The test measures the oxygen (O₂) level in your blood and if carbon dioxide (CO₂) is removed properly. It can also determine the acidity (pH) of your blood. Results of the test can show the severity of COPD and whether a person needs oxygen therapy.

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Chest X-ray is one of the tests commonly used for COPD diagnosis. The test is fast and painless and produces images of the organs inside the chest (lungs, heart, blood vessels, airways, bones, and spine). Chest X-rays can determine if another condition, such as heart failure, is causing the symptoms of COPD.

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A chest CT scan is a particular test used to diagnose COPD, usually following an initial chest X-ray. This painless imaging exam is more detailed than a chest X-ray, and in people with COPD, they can be used to detect emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or to determine whether another condition, such as heart failure, is causing COPD symptoms.

To learn more about chest CT scans, click the link below.