Allergy & Asthma Specialist Serving Arizona
Accurate Asthma Testing in Phoenix, AZ
Comprehensive Lung Function Evaluation in Phoenix
At Carefree Allergy in North Phoenix, asthma testing is approached with both clinical precision and personal understanding. As someone who grew up with undiagnosed asthma, Lindsey Forstie, FNP knows how easily subtle breathing limitations can be overlooked. We provide in office testing in Phoenix, with follow up care offered throughout Arizona.
Allergy-Asthma Connection
We treat both together
Same-Day Testing
Identify your triggers fast
Telehealth Statewide
Follow-ups from anywhere
"For most of her childhood, Lindsey believed the problem was her."
Lindsey’s journey into allergy and asthma care began long before her medical training. As a child, she struggled with undiagnosed asthma. Physical activity meant chest tightness, headaches, and falling behind despite her effort. For years, she believed her limitations were personal, until a school nurse recognized the signs of asthma. With proper care her breathing improved, confidence returned, and the boundaries she had quietly accepted began to disappear.
That experience shaped the direction of her career. Lindsey became a nurse, then a board certified family nurse practitioner specializing in allergy and immunology. She founded Carefree Allergy with a clear mission: no one should have to live within unnecessary limits caused by untreated asthma.
What to Expect During Your Asthma Evalution
Detailed Symptom Review
Your appointment begins with a focused discussion of your breathing symptoms. We review coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, exercise intolerance, and nighttime symptoms. Triggers, prior treatments, urgent care visits, and current medications are carefully assessed to understand the full clinical picture.
Lung Function Testing
If asthma is suspected, spirometry is performed in the office to objectively measure airflow. This test evaluates how well you move air in and out of your lungs. In many cases, testing is repeated after a bronchodilator to determine whether airway narrowing is reversible, which helps confirm the diagnosis.
Allergy Evaluation if Indicated
Because many asthma cases are allergy triggered, environmental allergy testing may be recommended. Identifying triggers such as pollens, molds, dust mites, or animals allows for more precise treatment and improved long term control.
Results and Treatment Plan
Before you leave, findings are reviewed in detail and a clear management plan is outlined. This may include inhalers, anti inflammatory medications, allergy treatment, and a written action plan for flare ups. Follow up is scheduled to ensure your asthma remains stable and well controlled.
What Is Spirometry and How Does It Work?
Spirometry is a simple, non-invasive breathing test that measures how well your lungs are working. It evaluates:
- How much air you can inhale
- How much air you can exhale
- How quickly you can exhale
During the test, you breathe into a device called a spirometer. After taking a deep breath, you blow out as forcefully and completely as possible into a mouthpiece. The machine records airflow and lung volume measurements such as FEV1 and FVC, which help determine whether your airways are narrowed.
In many cases, the test is repeated after using a bronchodilator medication. If lung function improves significantly after the medication, this supports a diagnosis of asthma.
The test typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes, and results are reviewed with you the same day.
Signs You May Have Asthma
Asthma symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may come and go. In children, asthma may also present as frequent coughing after activity, noisy breathing, or difficulty keeping up with peers during physical activity.
Because asthma and environmental allergies often overlap, identifying allergic triggers through allergy testing can be an important part of the evaluation process.
Common symptoms might include:
- Recurrent wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Chronic coughing, especially at night
- Symptoms triggered by exercise, cold air, pollen, or respiratory infections
- Cough that worsens during allergy season
What Causes Asthma?
There is no single cause of asthma, but several factors contribute to airway inflammation and reactivity.
- Environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander
- Family history of asthma or allergies
- Respiratory infections
- Exposure to tobacco smoke
- Air pollution and desert dust
- Exercise or cold air
- Strong scents or chemical fumes
The Allergy-Asthma Connection
Up to 80% of people with asthma also have allergies. When allergies aren’t controlled, asthma gets worse. That’s why treating both conditions together often leads to the best outcomes.
Identify Triggers
Allergy testing reveals what's making your asthma worse — pollen, dust, mold, or pets.
Treat the Root Cause
Allergy drops can reduce your immune system's overreaction to triggers.
Better Control
Many patients need less asthma medication when allergies are properly managed.x
Take Control of Your Breathing
If you are experiencing persistent cough, wheezing, or shortness of breath, an asthma test can provide clarity and direction.
Schedule a spirometry evaluation at Carefree Allergy in North Phoenix to determine whether asthma is affecting your breathing and to develop a personalized care plan.
Common Questions
Can spirometry confirm asthma?
Spirometry is one of the primary tools used to diagnose asthma. In some cases, additional testing may be needed depending on results and symptoms.
Do I need allergy testing if I have asthma?
Many patients with asthma also have allergic triggers. Allergy testing can help identify environmental factors that worsen symptoms and guide more precise treatment.
Do you treat both allergies and asthma together?
Yes! Up to 80% of people with asthma also have allergies. Treating the underlying allergies often improves asthma control. Our approach addresses both conditions for the best possible outcomes.
Do you see asthma patients across Arizona?
Yes! Our clinic is located in North Phoenix at 711 E Carefree Hwy, and we serve patients from Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tucson, Flagstaff, Prescott, Anthem, Carefree, Mesa, and beyond. In-person visits are at our Phoenix office, and telehealth follow-ups are available for patients anywhere in Arizona.
How long does asthma testing take?
Spirometry testing usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Results are typically reviewed the same day.
Is spirometry painful?
No. Spirometry is a non invasive breathing test. You simply breathe into a mouthpiece while guided by a medical professional.
Related Services
Asthma Care
Accurate trigger control and personalized treatment to keep symptoms well managed.