PFT's

[cfmama]

I am getting really disgusted with my children?s PFT readings being what seems to be the sole determination of what the doctors treatment is going to be. We just recently had a CF appointment and my son?s lungs were clear, pulse ox was great, had gained in height and in weight and due to the PFT?s being lower, his doctor wanted to hospitalize him. I know this all goes hand in hand, however, it seems like if all other areas are going well...ANYWAYS...My son says blowing into the machine is not the easiest thing to do. I am really having a hard time dealing with this!

 

[JazzysMom]

A PFT is a very physically draining test to perform if you are putting your best effort forward. If you believe your son is doing his best & the pft shows a decline yet the other aspects like weight, height, xrays are good that I would stand up for what you believe in. Remember that the doctors are not with your son 24/7. They go by what they are told & what tests show them. If you think the numbers are inaccurate than have a talk with your son to make sure he is doing his best during them & tell the doctor no...no hospital, no antibiotics etc if you dont believe them necessary. However; in doing this more than ever you need to keep an eye on things spriling out of control in case there is something lingering that hasnt actually showed its ugly head yet. Maybe you could ask that you go back in a few weeks just to double check & have pft done again. For me different things besides effort & infection can influence mu numbers. Being tired (not terribly, but even a little), being hungry & having my period. Trust your instincts!