HOW YOU PREPARE

Since nitric oxide testing is a relatively new tool for diagnosing asthma, not all insurance companies offer policies that cover nitrogen oxide testing. Therefore, make sure in advance whether your insurance policy provides coverage for the cost of this testing. Otherwise, you will have to pay for these expenses.
Also, avoid consuming anything or exercising for at least one hour before the test.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

Before the nitric oxide test, the doctor will want to know about your asthma symptoms. He or she may also order other tests, such as lung function tests.

You may sit while you are taking the test. You will be given a mouthpiece, which will be connected to an electronic device with a monitor. Then your doctor will ask you to inhale for two to three seconds. After your lungs get completely filled with air, you will have to exhale at a steady rate. This will allow a constant rate of flow of air out of the lungs, which aids in the correct measurement of the level of nitric oxide in the breath. The computer monitor will show your rate of breathing, and you can use the measurement to exhale at a steady rate. The test lasts for a maximum of 5 minutes.