• Currently 3/5 Stars.   • 1   • 2   • 3   • 4   • 5  COPD can
not be detected before irreversible lung damage has occurred.
But the earlier it is detected, the sooner steps can be taken to
modify further damage. When you first see your doctor, he or she
will ask about your symptoms and medical history and will
perform a physical exam. The history and physical exam provide
the most important information that is used for the diagnosis of
COPD.  If your doctor suspects you might have COPD, you may
undergo one or more of the following tests:  Pulmonary (Lung)
Function Tests  Many tests of lung function have been developed,
and each provides slightly different information about how well
your lungs are working. Pulmonary function tests are painless,
noninvasive tests that are performed using a machine called a
spirometer. By breathing into the spirometer under certain
conditions, the doctor can measure your lung volume and your
ability to move air in and out of your lungs in a certain period
of time. Your results