Diffusing Capacity

Diffusing capacity is a measure of how effectively oxygen moves from your lungs into your bloodstream. When you breathe, oxygen travels through tiny air sacs called alveoli, where it passes into your blood via the thin walls of these sacs. Diffusing capacity quantifies this transfer efficiency, reflecting the health of your lungs and the integrity of the alveolar-capillary membrane. A normal diffusing capacity indicates your lungs are effectively transferring oxygen, while a lower value may suggest issues like lung disease or damage affecting gas exchange. It’s an important test for assessing lung function and diagnosing respiratory conditions.