Spirometry

Alternative names:

pulmonary function tests; spirogram

How the test is performed:

Perform the test by breathing into an instrument called a spirometer that records the amount of air and the rate of air that is breathed in over a specified time. Some of the test measurements are obtained by normal breathing, and other tests require forced inhalation and/or exhalation.

How to prepare for the test:

Do not eat a heavy meal before the test. Do not smoke for 4 to 6 hours prior to the test. Specific instructions will be given if bronchodilators or inhaler medications are to be withheld before the test. Sometimes, medication may be inhaled prior to the test.

Children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

• toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

Since the test involved some forced breathing and rapid breathing, some temporary shortness of breath may be experienced. There is a tight fitting mouth piece to breathe through, and nose clips are applied.

Why the test is performed:

The test is performed to diagnose certain types of lung disease (especially asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema), to determine the cause of shortness of breath, for occupational exposure to contaminants, after the use of medications, and to measure progress in disease treatment.