FeNO
A FeNO (fractional exhaled nitric oxide) test is used to help determine the level of inflammation in a person’s airways. The cells involved in inflammation of the airways produce nitric oxide, and this test determines the amount of nitric oxide that is exhaled. If a FeNO test shows an elevated level of nitric oxide in a person’s breath, that is an indication of inflammation.
What is Nitric Oxide
Nitric oxide is a gas made of nitrogen and oxygen. In the body, it helps neurons communicate, encourages the release of hormones, and helps to improve blood flow.
How is Nitric Oxide Measured
The FeNO test is a non-invasive procedure that is usually performed at a medical office. The medical provider asks the patient to exhale steadily into a handheld device that will measure and display how many parts per billion of nitric oxide are in your exhalations. You may be asked to repeat the test a few times on a single visit.
Why is Nitric Oxide Measured?
The FeNO test is used for patients who have asthma or are suspected of having it.
If an asthma diagnosis is confirmed, your healthcare professional may perform regular FeNO tests to see if your management plan is effective. The tests can help doctors decide whether your medicine levels need to be reduced or increased for best effect. The test also may indicate the type of asthma you have, establish a history of your inflammation level, and reflect whether you have been taking your medicines properly.
Taking the FeNO Test
Contact the allergy and immunology specialists at Florida Medical Clinic about a FeNO test if you are suffering with respiratory symptoms and you suspect that you might have asthma or if you know you have asthma but think that your medications aren’t working.
Click here to make an appointment.
Proudly Serving: Brandon, Carrollwood, Land O’ Lakes, and Wesley Chapel.