Lung Function Test

A full lung function test at Welbeck includes the following assessments:

Spirometry lung function test - This measures the flow and volume of air through the airways into the lungs. You’ll 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.

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

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

Often, to gain a comprehensive clinical picture of one's lung health, the clinician might request a fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), in addition to a full lung function test. This diagnostic test measures the level of nitric oxide in your breath. While useful in diagnosing and managing asthma, this is a separate test that does not form part of a full lung function test. The self-pay price for this test is £127.

All of the tests involved are generally very safe and well-tolerated. Some patients can experience lightheadedness and fatigue due to repeatedly breathing in and out maximally.

Our physiologists are professionally trained to ensure you can complete the tests in a safe and supportive environment, guiding you throughout and monitoring for any discomfort. There are strict hygiene protocols in place to minimise any risk of infection, including thorough cleaning of equipment and use of disposable filters.

There’s no preparation needed ahead of having a lung function test. If anything is required, your specialist will instruct you before your appointment.

Some of the tests involved may not be suitable if you have certain health conditions, such as unstable heart problems, recent surgery, or severe respiratory issues. If you have any concerns or specific medical conditions, our team will discuss these with you beforehand to ensure the test is safe and appropriate.

All of the tests involved are very straightforward, and there's no recovery or aftercare needed.

An initial consultation with a Welbeck Lung Health specialist ranges from £250 to £350.

The self-pay price for a full lung function test is £500.

At Welbeck, our lung health specialists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if needed to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

At Welbeck, your safety and comfort are our priority, and we take every step to make the testing experience as smooth and reassuring as possible.

This test can only be booked after a consultation with a specialist. To schedule a consultation with a Welbeck consultant, please get in touch with our Lung Health centre to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.