Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Wednesday, March 04, 2009 EmilysPost asks

Q: Pulmonary Function Test

Before having one, wouldn't you get the best results if you discontinue your Advair for awhile beforehand?  And other inhalers, except if you have an attack? 

I'm trying to understand how the test could truly tell if you have asthma, if while you took it, you were on Advair and your asthma was controlled.

 

And, when you miss a dose of it daily for months, and your asthma is controlled, does this mean you may be "outgrowing" your asthma?  Or that you truly don't need a preventative anymore if you miss it half the time and never need your rescue inhaler?

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Rick Frea, Health Pro
3/ 7/09 11:00am

Ideally you should never stop taking your Advair unless advised to do so by your physician.  Asthma can be a tricky disease by not showing symptoms for days, weeks and even months.  When you do have asthma symptoms, and you are on your Advair, your symptoms will be less severe and easier to treat. 

 

As far as a pulmonary function test  (PFT) is concerned, your doctor will let you know if you should stop taking any medicines before the test. Not only can a PFT diagnose asthma, it can also show your doctor how well your current med regime is working.  

 

If you have further questions about your need to take Advair, or what to do prior to your PFT, you should call your physician.

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By EmilysPost— Last Modified: 12/27/10, First Published: 03/04/09