Spirometry
Whathappens during a spirometry test
You'll be seated during the test and a soft clip will be placed on your nose to stop air escaping from it. The tester will explain what you need to do and you may be asked to have a few practice attempts first.
When you're ready for the test, you'll be asked to:
- inhale fully, so your lungs are completely filled with air
- close your lips tightly around the mouthpiece
- exhale as quickly and forcefully as you can, making sure you empty your lungs fully
This will normally need to be repeated at least three times to ensure a reliable result.
In some cases, the test may need to be repeated around 15 minutes aftertaking some inhaled bronchodilator medication. This can show if you have a lung condition that responds to these medications.
Overall, your appointmentshould last around 30-90 minutes. You'll be able to go home soon after the tests have finished and can return to your normal activities.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Read about what a spirometry test involves and why it's carried out.
Why spirometry is carried out
Spirometry can be used to help diagnose a lung condition if youhave symptoms of aproblem, oryour doctor feels you're at an increased risk of developing a particular lung condition. For example,it may
Preparing for the test
You'll be told about anything you need to do to prepare for the test. If you use bronchodilator medication (medicines, usually inhaled, that help relax and widen your airways), you may need to stop
Whathappens during a spirometry test
You'll be seated during the test and a soft clip will be placed on your nose to stop air escaping from it. The tester will explain what you need to do and you may be asked to have a few practice attem
Your results
The person carrying out the testwon't usually be able to give you your results immediately. The results will need to belooked at by a specialist first, and will be sent to thedoctor who referred you f
Are there any risks or side effects?
Spirometry is a straightforward test and is generally considered very safe. Some people mayfeel dizzy , faint, shaky, sick or tired for a short period afterwards. Most people are able to have a spiro
Subscribe
Ask the doctor
Rate this article
Find products