Lung Function Testing in children in Illinois can help diagnose Asthma

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Lung Function Testing in children in Illinois can help diagnose Asthma

Lung function or pulmonary function tests can be performed in children over the age of five and are a valuable resource in the diagnosis and treatment of asthma. The most common test performed on children is called a spirometry test, which determines how well the child’s lungs are working. This type of test measures how much and how quickly a child can move air in and out of the lungs.

What is asthma?

Asthma affects nearly 5 million children in the United States. This chronic problem is characterized by narrowing and swelling in the airways, which can make breathing difficult. Some of the most common symptoms of asthma are shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, and tightening of the chest.

The Lung Function Test

During the test, the child is asked to stand up and take in a deep breath, followed by exhaling as hard and fast as possible into a mouthpiece. The child is given instructions to continue blowing until their lungs feel “empty.” To prevent air from escaping, the child may need to wear nose clips. Patients will need to repeat the test several times. In general, we want two to three good readings.

The data is collected by computer sensor located within the spirometer device and then calculated and graphed. This information shows how fast the child is able to blow along with the amount of air that was blown out. Results also include the total amount of air the child was able to expel from their lungs.

The results from the spirometry test help determine if there is an obstruction or narrowing of the airflow, consistent with an asthma diagnosis. In addition to spirometry, we will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, which includes details of the symptoms experienced along with a complete medical history. If it is determined that the child has asthma, medication, called a bronchodilator, may be prescribed to help open up the airways.

Asthma is not a condition that can be cured, but with the right combination of treatment and medication, it can be controlled. If you are in Illinois and you would like to learn more about lung function testing for your child, call us today.

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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.


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