Determination of diffusion capacity for CO and spirometry, lung treatment, sleep disorders

Determining the diffusion capacity is a diagnostic test that is used to assess the function of the lungs, i.e. their ability to transfer oxygen from the air into the blood. This test measures how efficiently the lungs absorb oxygen, using carbon monoxide as a marker to assess gas transfer. Diffusion capacity results can indicate the presence of certain lung diseases or breathing disorders, and also help doctors better understand the state of the patient's respiratory system.

During the test, the patient breathes through a special device that measures the amount of gases absorbed by the lungs. First, a few normal breaths are taken, after which the patient deeply inhales a gas mixture containing a small amount of carbon monoxide. After holding his breath for a few seconds, the patient exhales into the machine, and the machine measures the amount of remaining gas. Based on this data, doctors calculate the diffusion capacity. This examination is important because it allows doctors to accurately determine how efficiently the lungs are functioning. It also helps in monitoring the progression of the disease, the success of the therapy, or in the assessment of lung damage in people who have been exposed to harmful substances or long-term smoking.

The examination of diffusion capacity takes a relatively short time, usually between 15 and 30 minutes. The process of breathing through the apparatus itself takes only a few minutes, while the rest of the time includes preparing the patient, explaining the procedure and possible breaks between different parts of the test. Although the test is quick, the accuracy of the results depends on the cooperation of the patient, because it is important to perform each inhalation and exhalation correctly according to the instructions of the medical staff.