Diagnostics

The scope of the investigations is relative to each individual case and depends on the severity and complexity of the disease. In the pulmonary practice the diagnostic procedure includes an extensive interview, a physical examination and then tests on lung function.  Additional tests may be allergy tests, laboratory tests or lung function at exertion. If X-ray is necessary it can be obtained in the nearby practice of a radiologist.

If a valuable diagnostic is not achieved by the mentioned methods an endoscopy of the bronchi may be obtained. The procedure is then carried out by a cooperating colleague in the clinic. The investigation is also used to obtain tissue and secretion samples to detect inflammations or tumors.  

Lung function tests (body plethysmography, spirometry, diffusion measurement, p01-

Measurement) measure the volume of the lungs, the flow-properties of the respiratory air in the bronchi, the strength of the respiratory muscles and the capacity of the lung membranes for oxygen. This happens in a chamber, commonly called a bodyplethymograph. In order to obtain usable results, the sincere cooperation of the patient is required.  

Spiroergometry is an exercise test performed on a bicycle ergometer. It demonstrates and measures the performance of the lungs, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems under physical exertion. This examination is helpful in clarifying and differentiating the cause of dyspnea which may be the lung, the heart or the musculoskeletal function. It is also useful for the assessmentof athletic performance and as part of a medical checkup for early detection of diseases.

The arterial blood gases are determined from fresh blood samples and give information about the oxygen supply and the acid-base balance in the blood. Under exertion, a latent oxygen deficiency may be revealed. Before a patient receives oxygen and whhile he applies it an examination of the arterial blood gases is a pre-requisite.  

Pulse oximetry gives an indirect estimate of the oxygen saturation of the blood via a finger clip that uses light reflexes of the blood.

Using a pulse oximeter over a period of 24 hours allows us to observe and record the oxygen supply in the blood during periods of everyday life and sleep.  

The measurement of nitrogen oxide (FeNO) in exhaled air is a direct laboratory analysis, which tells us to what extent an asthmatic inflammation of the respiratory tract is present and to what extent this is already under control through medication.