Spirometry Tests
Spirometry (spy-ROM-uh-tree) is a common test used to check how well your lungs work. It measures how much air you breathe in, how much you breathe out and how quickly you breathe out.
Healthcare professionals use spirometry to diagnose asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other conditions that affect the ability to breathe. Healthcare professionals also may use spirometry from time to time to check the condition of your lungs and see whether a treatment for a lifelong lung condition is helping you breathe better.
Why it's done
If your healthcare professional thinks your symptoms may be caused by a lung condition such as asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, emphysema or pulmonary fibrosis, you may be asked to get a spirometry test. If you've already been diagnosed with a lung condition, your healthcare professional may use spirometry from time to time to check how well your medicines are working and whether your breathing problems are under control.
Your healthcare professional can order spirometry before a planned surgery to check if you have enough lung function for surgery. Also, spirometry may be used to screen for lung disorders related to your job.
Risks
Spirometry is generally a safe test. You may feel short of breath or dizzy for a moment after you do the test.
Because the test requires some physical effort, it isn't done if you've recently had a heart attack or another heart condition. Rarely, the test causes severe breathing problems.
What to expect from a Spirometry Test
Height and weight measured.
Nose is clipped to encourage mouth breathing.
Blow into mouth peice connected to spirometer. Repeat tree times.
Spirometer creates graph of lung function.
Purpose of Test
Spirometry measures key aspects of pulmonary (lung) function. The test can play an important role in assessing many lung problems, and it's usually ordered by a pulmonologist, a physician who specialises In treating respiratory conditions, or an allergist, a specialist in asthma and allergies.
It can help determine whether a lung condition is obstructive (in which exhalation is impaired) or restrictive (in which inhalation is impaired).
Spirometry is rarely used alone to diagnose a lung condition. It is typically combined with other findings, such as a physical exam, medical history review, and imaging tests, to reach a diagnosis.
As part of a panel of PFTs, spirometry may be used to help diagnose:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Emphysema (a type of COPD)
- Chronic bronchitis (a type of COPD)
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Cystic fibrosis
- Asthma
- Pulmonary fibrosis, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Spirometry is also useful for evaluating whether lung diseases are getting better, worse, or staying the same. This can help determine if a treatment is working or needs to be modified.
Spirometry may also be used before lung cancer surgery to predict how the lungs will function after a portion or lobe of a lung is removed.
Before the Test
Being aware of what's involved in a spirometry test can help you prepare and achieve the most accurate results.
Timing
A spirometry test typically takes around 45 minutes. It can take longer depending on waiting times. Ask your healthcare provider if the test may take longer so that you can plan ahead.
What to Wear
Because you will need to take very deep breaths, you should dress in loose-fitting clothing that won't restrict your breathing. Don't wear a belt or clothing that fits tightly around your chest or waist.
Food, Drink, and Medications
Little preparation is required before having a spirometry test. However, you may advise you to Eat lightly, Avoid alcohol before the test and check that your medications won't interfere with the test - Certain medical treatmrents can affect breathing, particularly inhaled bronchodilators. Avoid short-acting inhalers six to eight hours before testing unless you really need them (report any usage to the technician once you arrive).
