Health Library

Pulmonary Function Test: Exercise-Induced Asthma Test

About the Test

Your child will blow into the spirometer to measure how fast they are able to move air in and out of the lungs.

After successful completion, your child will be placed on an oxygen and heart rate monitor to allow continuous monitoring. They will then run on a treadmill for six to eight minutes to achieve maximum heart rate.

While running, they will be asked how hard they feel like they are working, on a scale of 1-10.

After exercise, they will continue to perform at least two spirometry measurements every five minutes for 30 minutes. If there is a significant change in your child's lung function, they will be treated with a bronchodilator before discharge.

The test takes about one and a half to two hours. Timing includes explanation and practice testing.

Preparing Your Child for the Test

• Your child must be able to follow directions, maintain a tight seal around a mouthpiece and be able to pedal a bicycle, run, or walk briskly on a treadmill in order to perform the test.
• Have your child wear loose-fitting clothes and appropriate shoes for exercise, such as gym shoes for walking, running or pedaling.
• No intense exercise on the day of the test.
• No LARGE meals within two hours before the test. However, your child may drink clear liquids (like water or apple juice) and eat a SMALL snack (fruit or granola bar) up to one hour before the test. It is recommended that your child does not go longer than six hours without eating.
• Avoid caffeinated products like coffee, tea and cola drinks; chocolate; added sugar; over-the-counter cold / sinus and allergy medicine; alcoholic drinks; and smoking for 24 hours before the test.

For optimal testing, it is recommended that certain medications NOT be taken prior to the test for the time periods indicated. However, if you have concerns about not taking these medications, please contact your doctor.

Possible Side Effects

There are no side effects and your child may resume normal activities after testing.