Who Needs a FENO Asthma Test? Indications and Contraindications

The FENO test is a non-invasive method used to measure nitric oxide (NO) levels in exhaled breath. Nitric oxide is a molecule that your body produces naturally, and its levels in your breath can provide valuable information about the inflammation in your airways. Elevated levels of FENO often indicate the presence of eosinophilic airway inflammation, which is commonly associated with asthma.

A FENO test can be helpful in various situations, including:

Diagnosing Asthma: The FENO test can be a valuable tool in diagnosing asthma, especially when the symptoms and spirometry results are inconclusive. It can help differentiate between asthma and other respiratory conditions with similar symptoms, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Assessing Asthma Control: The FENO test can help determine if your asthma is well-controlled or if you need to adjust your medication. A decrease in FENO levels may show that your treatment plan is working, while an increase may suggest that your asthma is not well-controlled.

Monitoring Response to Treatment: The FENO test can be used to monitor the response to certain asthma medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids. A decrease in FENO levels after starting a new medication indicates a positive response, while no change or an increase may suggest the treatment is ineffective.

Identifying Triggers: The FENO test can help identify potential asthma triggers, such as allergens or irritants, by measuring the airway inflammation levels after exposure.

Predicting Asthma Exacerbations: Elevated FENO levels may show an increased risk of asthma exacerbations, allowing healthcare providers to take preventive measures and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

Despite its benefits, the FENO test is only suitable for some. Some contraindications for the test include:

Recent Respiratory Infections: The FENO test results may be unreliable if you have had a respiratory infection within the past four weeks. Infections can cause an increase in FENO levels, leading to false-positive results.

Current Smokers: Smoking can affect FENO levels, making it difficult to interpret the results accurately. If you smoke, quitting smoking before undergoing a FENO test is essential.

Age: The FENO test may not be reliable for children under five years old, as they may need help performing it correctly.

Severe Airflow Obstruction: If you have severe airflow obstruction, such as in advanced COPD, you may not be able to perform the test correctly, making the results unreliable.

Certain Medications: Some medications, such as oral or inhaled corticosteroids, can affect FENO levels. You must inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking before undergoing a FENO test.

The FENO asthma test is a valuable tool for diagnosing asthma, assessing asthma control, monitoring response to treatment, identifying triggers, and predicting asthma exacerbations. However, it is essential to consider the contraindications, such as recent respiratory infections, smoking, age, severe airflow obstruction, and certain medications, before undergoing the test.

If you think a FENO test could benefit you or a loved one in managing asthma, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts. With their extensive experience in pulmonary medicine, they can guide you through the process and help you make an informed decision about your asthma care.

Don’t let asthma hold you back any longer! Take control of your respiratory health with the help of Gwinnett Lung. Schedule your FENO asthma test today. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care, helping you breathe easier and live a healthier life.