How strong are your lungs? What test determines this? What are some ways to keep your lungs healthy?
- bySudha Saxena
- 19 Feb, 2026
Lung Function Tests: Spirometry tests are performed to assess lung strength. This measures lung capacity. If a person experiences shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness, these could be signs of weak lungs. Doctors say abstinence from smoking, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and clean air can help maintain healthy lungs.
Lung Health Check: Air pollution has become the world's most serious problem, and billions of people are breathing polluted air. Toxic elements are entering people's bodies through breathing, causing lung damage. Exposure to toxic air is weakening people's lungs at an early age. Nowadays, even young people are facing lung and respiratory problems. A hectic lifestyle, smoking, and physical inactivity directly affect the health of our lungs. People often wonder what test determines lung strength. Let's find out from a doctor.
Dr. Bhagwan Mantri, former pulmonologist at Moolchand Hospital in New Delhi, told us that the lungs are one of the most vital organs in our body, but people often ignore them until they experience problems like shortness of breath, cough, or fatigue. Therefore, it's important to know how strong your lungs are. The most common and reliable test for assessing lung capacity and function is spirometry, also known as a lung function test. This test requires a person to breathe deeply and forcefully into a machine. This measures how much air the lungs can inhale and how quickly they can exhale. This test is extremely useful in diagnosing diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The doctor explained that if a patient has lung problems, a peak flow meter test and a gas diffusion test are also performed. If spirometry results are lower than normal, it could indicate lung weakness or a blockage. Long-term smokers may experience a gradual decline in lung capacity. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is also a major factor in reducing lung function. Lung strength isn't just limited to breathing capacity; it's also linked to your overall health. If you experience frequent coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, or unusual fatigue, consult a doctor immediately and get the necessary tests done.
Experts believe that lifestyle changes are essential to keeping the lungs healthy and strong. First, one should completely abstain from smoking and tobacco. Regular aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, running, swimming, or cycling, helps increase lung capacity. Deep breathing exercises and pranayama also strengthen the respiratory muscles. Maintaining clean air at home and work, avoiding dust and smoke, and using a mask when necessary are also beneficial. A balanced diet also plays an important role in lung health. Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, such as oranges, berries, spinach, and carrots, help protect lung cells from damage.
PC:Hindi News18






