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Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) Testing for Airway Inflammation in the Capital Region

FeNO testing, also known as Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide testing, is a simple breathing test used to measure inflammation in the airways. Elevated levels of nitric oxide in exhaled breath can indicate inflammation associated with allergic asthma.

At Certified Allergy & Asthma Consultants, FeNO testing helps evaluate patients throughout New York’s Capital Region who experience symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or persistent respiratory irritation.

This test provides valuable information about airway inflammation related to allergic or eosinophilic asthma and can help physicians determine whether inhaled corticosteroid medications or other treatments may be beneficial.

Because the test is quick, noninvasive, and performed in the office, FeNO testing can be an important tool for diagnosing and managing asthma.

What Is FeNO Testing?

FeNO testing measures the amount of nitric oxide gas present in a patient’s exhaled breath. Nitric oxide is produced naturally in the body, but higher levels in the breath can indicate inflammation in the airways.

Inflammation in the lungs is commonly seen in patients with allergic asthma and eosinophilic airway inflammation. Measuring FeNO levels provides physicians with additional information about the presence and severity of airway inflammation.

Unlike some lung function tests that measure airflow, FeNO testing focuses specifically on inflammatory activity in the airways.

Why FeNO Testing Is Performed

FeNO testing may be recommended when evaluating respiratory symptoms or monitoring asthma treatment.

This test can help physicians:

  • Identify airway inflammation associated with asthma
  • Support the diagnosis of allergic or eosinophilic asthma
  • Determine whether inhaled corticosteroids may be effective
  • Monitor how well asthma medications are controlling inflammation
  • Assess adherence to prescribed asthma medications

FeNO testing is often used together with other diagnostic tools such as spirometry to provide a more complete picture of lung health.

How FeNO Testing Is Performed

FeNO testing is a quick and noninvasive procedure that is typically completed in just a few minutes.

1. Preparation

  • The patient takes a deep breath in through a mouthpiece attached to the testing device.

2. Controlled Exhalation

  • The patient slowly exhales into the device at a steady rate for several seconds.


3. Measurement

The device measures the level of nitric oxide in the exhaled breath and provides an immediate result.

The procedure is painless and does not involve needles or medications.

Because the test requires controlled breathing, patients may be asked to repeat the maneuver to ensure accurate results.

 

Understanding FeNO Test Results

FeNO results are measured in parts per billion (ppb) and help physicians evaluate the level of airway inflammation.

Lower Levels

  • Low nitric oxide levels generally suggest minimal airway inflammation.

Moderately Elevated Levels

  • Moderate levels may indicate allergic airway inflammation that could respond to anti-inflammatory treatment.


Higher Levels

Higher FeNO levels may indicate significant airway inflammation commonly associated with uncontrolled allergic asthma.

Your allergist will interpret the results in combination with other clinical findings, symptoms, and diagnostic tests.

Conditions Evaluated with FeNO Testing

FeNO testing is primarily used in the evaluation and management of asthma and related airway inflammation.

Conditions that may be evaluated include:

  • Allergic asthma
  • Eosinophilic airway inflammation
  • Chronic cough associated with airway inflammation
  • Monitoring response to asthma medications

Because airway inflammation can fluctuate over time, FeNO testing may be repeated periodically to monitor disease control.

Preparing for FeNO Testing

FeNO testing requires minimal preparation. However, certain factors can influence test results.

Patients may be asked to:

  • Avoid eating immediately before testing
  • Avoid strenuous exercise before the test
  • Inform the physician about current medications

Your care team will provide specific instructions if any preparation is necessary.

Benefits of FeNO Testing

FeNO testing provides important information about airway inflammation that may not be detected through lung function testing alone.

Benefits of FeNO testing include:

  • Noninvasive measurement of airway inflammation
  • Immediate test results
  • Support for asthma diagnosis
  • Monitoring effectiveness of anti-inflammatory medications
  • Helping guide treatment decisions

When used together with other tests such as spirometry, FeNO testing helps physicians develop a more personalized approach to asthma care.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Exhaled Nitric Oxide Tests


What does FeNO measure?
FeNO testing measures the level of nitric oxide in exhaled breath, which can indicate inflammation in the airways.

Is FeNO testing painful?
No. FeNO testing is a noninvasive breathing test that does not involve needles or medications.

How long does the test take?
The test usually takes only a few minutes and provides immediate results.

Can FeNO testing diagnose asthma?
FeNO testing helps support the diagnosis of certain types of asthma, particularly allergic or eosinophilic asthma, but it is typically used along with other tests such as spirometry.

How often is FeNO testing performed?
Your allergist may repeat FeNO testing periodically to monitor airway inflammation and evaluate how well asthma treatments are working.

certified allergy patient with nurse

Expert Care For Exhaled Nitric Oxide Tests In the Capital Region

Patients trust Certified Allergy & Asthma Consultants for comprehensive evaluation of respiratory and allergic conditions.

Our specialists use FeNO testing to:

  • Evaluate airway inflammation associated with asthma
  • Support accurate diagnosis of allergic respiratory conditions
  • Monitor response to asthma treatments
  • Develop personalized treatment plans

With accurate testing and expert care, many patients can achieve improved asthma control and better long-term respiratory health.

This website is provided by Certified Allergy & Asthma Consultants for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide specific medical advice. Specific medical advice can only be provided by a licensed medical practitioner through the establishment of a physician-patient relationship. The use of this website does not establish such a relationship. The information contained on this website is believed to be accurate, but its accuracy cannot be guaranteed and is subject to change. Reliance on any information obtained from this website is solely at your own risk.
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