Respiratory physiology (sleep and respiratory)

The respiratory physiology department provide quick-access and timely diagnostic testing within the community, aiming to reduce waiting times, earlier diagnosis, and provide treatment.

Our testing investigates how well the lungs and airways are working, assess your respiratory status and see how well medications are working.

Respiratory tests performed at the CDC

There are several tests that we will be performing at the CDC, some include:

FeNO – Measure the amount of inflammation in your airways.
Reversibility – A breathing test to assess your airways and lungs pre and post inhalers.
6-minute walk test – A test to see the distance you can walk and how your oxygen levels change throughout.
Capillary blood gas analysis – Asses your respiratory status.
Sleep studies (Overnight oximetry and limited polysomnography) - Tests done during sleep to monitor breathing and oxygen levels.
Spirometry, pulmonary function and full lung function – Assess how well your airways and lungs are working.

We work alongside several healthcare professionals, including consultants and GPs, to help diagnose, treat, and manage a range of respiratory conditions, including:

Asthma
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Interstitial lung disease (ILD)
Bronchiectasis / Bronchitis
Pleural disease
Cancer (Faster Diagnostic Standard Pathway)
Sleep disordered breathing (such as, obstructive sleep apnoea).

Preparing for your test

Please do not smoke, consume caffeine, or alcohol before your appointment. Please also remove nail polish or artificial nails, as these can affect the results of some tests.

You may also be given specific instructions about inhalers or medications before your appointment.