Lung function tests in Illinois can test for asthma and other lung conditions

Lung function tests in Illinois can test for asthma and other lung conditions

The pulmonary system has many functions. One of its primary functions is to move air in and out of the lungs. Many conditions can inhibit proper ventilation and potentially lead to chronic diseases. These types of conditions can be classified into two different groups: restrictive and obstructive.

Obstructive conditions occur when there is resistance to air flow out of the lungs. Restrictive conditions occur when the muscles do not expand properly and disrupt the flow of air.

Lung function tests are a way for doctors to determine the causes of these problems and come up with a plan for treatment. These tests measure a variety of different functions, some of the most common include:

  • Tidal Volume – The measurement of air inhaled and exhaled when breathing normally
  • Minute Volume – The amount of air that can be exhaled in a minute
  • Vital Capacity – The total amount of air exhaled after maximum inhalation
  • Functional Residual Capacity – The total air left in the lungs after normal exhalation
  • Total Lung Capacity – The capacity of the lungs when filled with air
  • Forced Vital Capacity – The total air that can be forced out quickly after fully inhaling
  • Peak expiratory flow rate – The maximum amount of air during forced exhalation

Lung function testing may be needed for a variety of reasons. In some instances, it may be part of a regular physical. Other times it is ordered to help diagnose specific conditions. A few of the most common conditions that can be diagnosed with lung function testing includes:

  • Chronic lung conditions – Asthma, Bronchitis, and Emphysema
  • Respiratory Infections
  • Chest Trauma
  • Scleroderma – Connective tissue disease
  • Restrictive airway disease – Scoliosis, tumors, inflammation of the chest wall

Lung function tests are performed in our office. Patients should wear loose fitting clothing and will need to empty their bladder prior to the procedure. A nose clip is worn to ensure that all breathing goes through the mouth. Patients will then be asked to perform several different breathing exercises into the spirometer. Some patients may be required to use a bronchodilator before repeating different exercises.

With the aid of lung function testing, the team at Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates in Illinois can help patients with a variety of lung conditions. To schedule your test, contact us at (847) 888-8802.

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Meredith Cirrincione | Dr. Noga Askenazi

Amy Schack, a distinguished board-certified Physician Associate, brings a wealth of expertise to patient care. Specializing in allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, asthma, and rashes, Amy is renowned for her commitment to excellence and compassionate approach. With a background in immediate care and orthopedics, she holds a Master's in Physician Assistant studies from Midwestern University and a Bachelor of Science from Northern Illinois University. A member of esteemed professional associations, including the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Association of PAs in Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, Amy Schack instills confidence, ensuring you can trust her unwavering dedication to your health and well-being.


Meredith Cirrincione is a board certified Physician Assistant and specializes in treating allergies, with a focus on asthma, rashes, environmental allergies, chemical and food allergies. She holds a Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from The Chicago Medical School - Rosalind Franklin University of Health Sciences. She is a Fellow member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, the Illinois Academy of Physician Assistants, and the Association of PAs in Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. She likes to approach things holistically. She is a strong patient advocate and adored by her patients. She enjoys singing, reading, cooking, and the great outdoors.


Dr. Noga Askenazi is a nationally recognized asthma and allergy specialist who is board certified in pediatric and adult allergy. Her areas of special interest are innovative treatment of rashes, sinusitis, food allergies, asthma and immune disorders. She was past President of the ISAAI (Illinois Society of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology), works on state and national committees for advancement of the allergy field and is a consultant for Advocate, Ascension Health, Northwestern amongst other health care systems. Her joy is helping patients reach their goals after together determining best treatments. Her staff and patients are a chosen family, and she invests in their happiness. She enjoys gardening, biking and cooking to good music.