Lungundersökningar

Lungundersökningar, or lung examinations, encompass a variety of medical procedures used to assess the health and function of the lungs. These examinations are crucial for diagnosing a wide range of respiratory conditions, from common infections like pneumonia to chronic diseases such as asthma, COPD, and lung cancer. They also play a role in monitoring the progression of these diseases and the effectiveness of treatment.

One of the most common lung examinations is the chest X-ray. This imaging technique uses a small amount of radiation to create a picture of the lungs, heart, and ribs, helping to identify abnormalities like fluid buildup, tumors, or structural changes. Another important diagnostic tool is spirometry, a type of pulmonary function test (PFT) that measures how much air can be exhaled and how quickly. Spirometry is essential for diagnosing and managing obstructive lung diseases like asthma and COPD.

Other lung examinations include computed tomography (CT) scans, which provide more detailed cross-sectional images of the lungs than X-rays, and bronchoscopy, a procedure where a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the airways to visualize them directly and obtain tissue samples if needed. Blood tests can also be used to assess oxygen levels and detect signs of infection or inflammation. The choice of lung examination depends on the patient's symptoms, medical history, and the suspected underlying condition.