What is spirometry?
Spirometry is a simple breathing test that measures how much air you can breathe in and out, and how quickly you can blow air out of your lungs. It can help assess how well your lungs are working and may be used to help diagnose or monitor conditions such as asthma and COPD.
Before your appointment
It is important that you follow the instructions below.
- Do not smoke or vape for at least 4 hours before your appointment.
- Do not use any inhalers for at least 4 hours before your appointment, unless you have been specifically advised otherwise by your healthcare professional.
If you have smoked or vaped within 4 hours of your appointment, we will not be able to proceed with the spirometry test.
Please contact us before your appointment if:
We will not be able to proceed with spirometry if any of the following apply to you. Please contact us before attending if you:
- Have had a chest infection requiring antibiotics or steroid treatment within the last 6 weeks.
- Have had chest, abdominal or eye surgery in the last 3 months.
- Have had a heart attack or stroke in the last 3 months.
- Are currently unwell with a chest infection or have a persistent cough.
If any of the above apply, please contact us before attending your appointment. Your spirometry appointment may need to be rearranged until it is safe and appropriate for you to have the test.
What happens during the test?
You will be asked to breathe into a spirometer through a disposable mouthpiece. You will take a deep breath in and then blow out as hard and as fast as you can until your lungs are emptied.
You may be asked to repeat the test several times to make sure the results are accurate. The test is straightforward, although you may feel slightly out of breath or light-headed for a short time afterwards.
Your healthcare professional will explain what you need to do throughout the test and will make sure you are comfortable.
How long does it take?
Please allow 20-40 minutes for your appointment.
Your results
Your spirometry results will be reviewed by an appropriate healthcare professional. You will be advised about the results and whether any further assessment or treatment is needed.
If you are unsure whether any of the above applies to you, or if you have any questions before your appointment, please contact us before attending.
