Can lung function be assessed during physical examination for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can generally undergo pulmonary function tests, but they should be postponed during acute attacks or when there is severe respiratory distress. Pulmonary function examination is an important method for evaluating the condition of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which can help doctors determine the degree of airflow limitation and disease staging. Pulmonary function testing is of great clinical significance for stable COPD patients. The degree of airflow limitation can be determined by the ratio of forced expiratory volume to forced vital capacity in the first second, and bronchial dilation test can help identify diseases such as asthma. Before the examination, it is necessary to stop using short acting bronchodilators, avoid vigorous exercise, and cooperate with the technician to complete deep inhalation, explosive exhalation, and other actions. The examination results can guide medication adjustments, such as increasing the use of long-acting bronchodilators. When patients are in the acute exacerbation phase and show significant wheezing and decreased blood oxygen saturation, forced lung function tests may exacerbate respiratory distress. Patients with severe pulmonary hypertension, recent myocardial infarction, or hemoptysis should also be cautious. In such cases, the condition should be evaluated through blood routine, arterial blood gas, etc., and lung function tests should be considered after symptoms are controlled. When some severe patients are unable to complete standard testing procedures, a simplified examination plan can be used. Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) should adhere to medication and regularly check their lung function. It is recommended to undergo testing at least once a year. Mild dizziness after examination is a normal phenomenon, which can be relieved after rest. If chest pain or severe coughing occurs during the examination, it should be terminated immediately. Pay attention to avoiding smoking and respiratory infections in daily life, and perform lip tightening breathing training to improve lung function.