Spirometry
What is a Spirometry ?
Spirometry, also known as a pulmonary function test or lung function test, measures the airflow in your lungs and estimates lung volume. It provides valuable information about lung strength and breathing efficiency for your healthcare provider.
This test is safe and routinely ordered by healthcare providers to assess lung function.
When would Spirometry be needed?
- Chest tightness, pain or pressure.
- Coughing, especially coughing with mucus.
- Difficulty taking a deep breath.
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea).
- Wheezing.
How is a Spirometry test Performed?
Your test may be conducted either at your healthcare provider’s office or in a dedicated lung-function laboratory. During the procedure, soft clips will be placed on your nose to ensure you breathe exclusively through the mouthpiece connected to the spirometer.
You will be instructed to take a deep breath in and exhale forcefully into the spirometer through the mouthpiece. The spirometer measures the volume of air expelled from your lungs during exhalation and the volume inhaled during inhalation.
To ensure accuracy and reproducibility, you will repeat the test at least three times.