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Spirometry means measuring breathing. It is a very important test in the diagnosis of chronic respiratory diseases, particularly in diagnosing bronchial asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It allows the function of the airways to be assessed. The test involves breathing through a device called a spirometer, which is connected to a computer. Spirometry measurements provide diagnostic data on the amount and functional state of lung tissue.
Description of the test
During spirometry, the patient breathes through a mouthpiece connected to the spirometer by a special tube. Before the actual spirometry measurements begin, the patient should take several deep breaths.. Next, take a very deep breath, seal your lips tightly around the mouthpiece and blow all the air out of your lungs into the device as quickly as possible. During the measurements, the spirograph monitor displays the values of individual parameters such as vital capacity (VC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and their percentage ratio (FVC). The test usually takes a few minutes.
Purpose of the test
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Diagnosis of lung diseases
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Assessment of the occupational risk of exposure to harmful airborne substances
Spirometry is used to assess a person’s respiratory function. Its main purpose is to determine the volume of gases contained in the lungs and provide information about the ventilatory function of the respiratory system. Spirometry is also intended to determine the rate and volume of gas exchange in the lungs.
Indications for the test
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Respiratory diseases
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Surgery on lung tissue
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Monitoring the treatment of lung diseases
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Recovery and rehabilitation following respiratory diseases
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Shortness of breath accompanied by bouts of coughing or a chronic cough
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Smoking.
Preparation and contraindications for the test
It is advisable not to eat or smoke for approximately 4 hours before the test. There are no contraindications to the test. Spirometry can be repeated multiple times in patients of any age, as well as in pregnant women, without the need for pharmacological or provocation tests.
Waiting time for the result
The result is provided on the day of the test as a written report with numerical values for the parameters measured.
Where and how can you have the test?
Spirometry is available at many healthcare facilities in Poland.
