Spirometry (Breathing Test)

What is spirometry (breathing test)?

Spirometry, which is a breathing test, assesses how well you or your child’s lungs are functioning. It measures how much air you breathe in, how much air you can breathe out, and how quickly you exhale. 

Spirometry can diagnose chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and other lung conditions that affect how efficiently you breathe.

Why might I require spirometry testing?

Your primary care specialist might urge you to undergo spirometry if they suspect you have a condition that affects your lungs and breathing, such as:

• COPD
• Asthma
• Emphysema
• Chronic bronchitis
• Pulmonary fibrosis

If you’ve already been diagnosed with a lung disorder, they may suggest spirometry to find out if your medications are working the way they’re designed to. If you experience shortness of breath during exercise (or at rest) and wheezing, you might be a good candidate for spirometry.

How should I prepare for a spirometry test?

Follow your provider’s instructions to prepare for spirometry breathing tests properly. You might be asked to avoid using inhalers or other medications prior to your appointment. Wear loose-fitting clothing, and don’t eat a very large meal right before your scheduled test.

What happens during spirometry breathing tests?

When you arrive at AFM Healthcare for an appointment, you relax in a comfortable chair. Your provider places a clip on your nose to keep your nostrils closed. During your test, you breathe into a spirometer, which is a breathing tube attached to a special machine.

You take a deep breath and breathe out hard into the tube for several seconds. You need to make sure your lips create a seal around the tube to prevent air from leaking out. You might be asked to complete this breathing exercise at least three times. 

In between tests, your doctor might give you inhaled medications to open your lungs. Spirometry tests usually take 15 minutes (or less) to complete. 

What should I expect after spirometry testing?

After a spirometry breathing test, your doctor can make a more definitive diagnosis of what condition you might have. They might recommend using an inhaler as needed, especially during exercise, or undergoing allergy testing and treatment when necessary. 

Your provider can follow up with you periodically to ensure your treatment works as it’s intended.

Don’t live with breathing difficulties when simple diagnostic testing and treatment are within reach. Schedule an appointment with AFM Healthcare by phone or online to find out if you’re a good candidate for a spirometry breathing test.