Getting a diagnosis

Lung function tests (spirometry)

Spirometry is the main breathing test for COPD. For this test, you will be asked to blow as long and hard as you can into a tube that connects to a spirometer machine. The machine checks how much air you can breathe in and out, as well as how fast you can breathe out. This helps your doctor see if you have COPD or another lung condition like asthma. 

Other tests may include:

• Chest X-ray: For pictures of your lungs and nearby parts
• CT chest: For more detailed pictures than an X-ray
• Arterial blood gas analysis: A blood test to see how well your lungs get oxygen into your blood and remove carbon dioxide
• Laboratory tests: These aren’t used to diagnose COPD, but can rule out other problems.

This video explains further what lung function tests are and how they are used to diagnose lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Not sure about your diagnosis?

Some lung conditions can be very hard to diagnose and can look similar on scans. Experts like lung doctors, radiologists and pathologists will work together to look at your results very carefully. Don’t worry if your doctor can’t say for sure what’s wrong right away. They want to get a clearer picture too. Some lung problems can be hard to spot and COPD symptoms can be similar to other conditions. Even without an exact diagnosis, your doctor can still talk about treatment options and how to manage your lung problem.

Getting a second opinion

Talking to other doctors is okay if that helps you feel more confident about your next steps. Getting a second opinion is common, and it doesn’t mean you don’t trust your first doctor. You can still get a second opinion, even if you’ve already started treatment, or if you want to keep seeing your first doctor.

Take care when asking ‘Dr Google’!

The internet can be incredibly helpful when you want to learn more about your lung disease. But it’s like a big ocean of information, and not everything in it is beneficial or accurate. Some websites might have information that’s hard to understand, or even details that are simply incorrect or out of date. Reading too much online can even make you feel more worried!

So, how can you use the internet wisely?

• Your doctor is your best guide. They know your health story better than anyone and can give you reliable information you can trust. They can also point you to good websites to look at.
• Consider the source of the information. Is it from a well-known hospital, a government health organization, or just someone’s personal blog? Stick to reputable places.

While reputable online resources can be useful, always remember that your doctor is the most reliable source for information about your health. They can give you the clearest and safest answers.

Respiratory Care Nurse Service

Our Respiratory Care Nurse phone service is for people living with COPD or bronchiectasis. Our nurse can give you advice about your condition, based on the latest guidelines. To make a free phone appointment, call the Information and Support Centre on 1800 654 301. It’s a free call from landlines and most mobiles in Australia. Alternatively, you can use the link below to book online.