If you experience coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or unexplained breathlessness, a FeNO test can provide useful information about inflammation inside your airways.
At Axis Core Health in Warrington, FeNO testing is available as a quick, non-invasive way to investigate your respiratory health.
What is a FeNO test?
FeNO stands for fractional exhaled nitric oxide. The test measures the amount of nitric oxide in the air you breathe out.
Higher levels can be associated with a particular type of airway inflammation known as eosinophilic or type 2 inflammation, which is commonly seen in people with asthma and allergic airway conditions.
What happens during the test?
You will be asked to:
- Take a deep breath through the testing device.
- Exhale slowly and steadily into it.
- Continue until the device confirms that the test is complete.
The test takes only a few minutes and does not involve needles, physical exertion or medication.
What does a high FeNO result mean?
FeNO results are measured in parts per billion (ppb).
In adults, a result of 50 ppb or above can support the presence of eosinophilic airway inflammation when considered alongside symptoms and other clinical findings. A high result may also suggest that someone with respiratory symptoms could respond to corticosteroid treatment.
However, a raised FeNO result does not automatically confirm asthma. Results can also be influenced by:
- Allergies or exposure to allergens
- Whether inhaled corticosteroids are being used
- How consistently an existing inhaler is taken
- Recent respiratory infections
- Smoking
- Individual variations in nitric oxide levels
This is why FeNO should not be interpreted in isolation.
Can you have asthma with a normal FeNO result?
Yes. Asthma does not always involve high levels of eosinophilic inflammation, so a lower FeNO result cannot completely rule it out.
FeNO measures airway inflammation, while spirometry measures airflow and how effectively you can empty your lungs. Using these tests together can provide a broader picture of your respiratory health.
Who may benefit from FeNO testing?
A FeNO test may be useful if you experience:
- A persistent or recurring cough
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Unexplained breathlessness
- Symptoms triggered by exercise or allergens
- Suspected asthma
- Respiratory symptoms despite normal oxygen readings
FeNO testing in Warrington
Axis Core Health provides private FeNO testing and lung function testing in Warrington.
Our testing options include:
- FeNO test: £80 – approximately 10 minutes
- FeNO and spirometry: £139 – approximately 20 minutes
Testing results should always be considered alongside your symptoms, medical history and any other relevant investigations.
If you are experiencing ongoing breathlessness, coughing, wheezing or chest tightness, contact Axis Core Health to discuss the most appropriate lung assessment for you.
Seek urgent medical attention for sudden or severe difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion or blue or grey lips or skin.
To book a test please email info@axiscorehealth.co.uk OR call: 07557 784 401