We’re Visiting on 6 May!
To celebrate World Asthma Day, Respiratory Care WA is visiting the Department of Health on Tuesday, 6 May 2025! Meet us in the main cafeteria from 10 am – 1 pm to learn more about asthma – a condition impacting 1 in 9 Western Australians – and how we are supporting people living with respiratory conditions. If you have or suspect you may have asthma or COPD, we invite you to refer yourself for lung function test and respiratory assessment at one of our dedicated Respiratory Hubs in Perth:
The Importance of Lung Function Testing
Lung function testing, especially Spirometry, is crucial for accurately diagnosing respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD. At Respiratory Care WA, we provide the most comprehensive, non-invasive testing available, assessing lung strength, inflammation, and potential restrictions. But our approach goes beyond numbers—we focus on the person behind the results. Our Respiratory Scientists combine expertise in respiratory physiology with personalised patient interactions to deliver meaningful insights. All test results are shared directly with the patient’s GP or healthcare provider for continuity of care.
Pre-Appointment FAQs
Who could benefit from Lung Function Testing?
You may benefit from a lung function (breathing) test if you:
- Have a persistent cough
- Experience unexplained shortness of breath
- Have a family history of lung conditions
- Are a current smoker or have a history of smoking; or if your
- GP suspects that you may have asthma or COPD.
People diagnosed with asthma or COPD may benefit from LFT to:
- Determine your lung capacity
- Confirm the severity of your condition
- Check if your condition has changed
- Confirm if your condition is responding to treatment
- Detect narrowing airways
- Show whether exposure to certain substances has altered your lung function
What should I do before arriving at my lung function test appointment?
Please refrain from taking inhaled medications prior to testing. You will be sent a pre-appointment document that outlines how long to withhold these medications. Please ensure you wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing. Additionally,
do not:
- Smoke, vape or consume alcohol within 8 hours of your appointment.
- Perform vigorous exercise within 1 hour of your appointment.
- Eat or drink within 1 hour of your appointment (drinking water is fine).
- Consume nitrate-rich foods, such as green leafy vegetables (e.g. celery, leek, beetroot, lettuce and spinach), for three hours prior to the appointment.
Please contact our team if you have any questions before your appointment.
How long will the appointment take?
Lung function testing appointments take approximately 1 hour to complete.
How early should I arrive to my appointment?
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment time to complete pre-appointment paperwork.
What should I do if I am feeling unwell before my appointment?
If you have a fever, shortness of breath, viral cough or are in COVID-19 isolation, please do not attend the appointment and call 08 9289 3600.
Where are your Respiratory Hubs located?
Respiratory Care WA has
across Perth and the South-West for both paediatric and adult consumers.
About Respiratory Care WA
Respiratory Care WA provides free and personalised, community-based respiratory services for people impacted by asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Our services include respiratory education, diagnostic Lung Function Testing, health promotions, plus health professional respiratory training. We strive to deliver the right services, advice and education through access to best practice, multi-disciplinary experts to help Western Australians facing respiratory health challenges live a better life.
