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Spirometry

Overview

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Spirometry is a common, non-invasive pulmonary function test that measures how well a person can breathe and evaluates lung function. It is often used to diagnose conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other disorders affecting breathing. The test involves taking deep breaths and exhaling into a spirometer, which records the amount (volume) and speed (flow) of air that a person can inhale and exhale.

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How is Broncho Alveolar Lavage (BAL) done?

  • Avoid smoking: Patients are generally advised not to smoke for at least 4-6 hours before the test.
  • Refrain from heavy meals Eating a heavy meal may affect breathing, so a light meal is preferable.
  • Medications: Some bronchodilator medications may need to be paused, depending on the doctor’s instructions, to ensure accurate results.
  • Loose clothing: It is recommended to wear comfortable and loose clothing to facilitate unrestricted breathing.
  • No vigorous exercise: Patients should avoid strenuous exercise before the test as it can affect lung function.

  • Initial Consultation: The technician explains the test and demonstrates how to breathe properly into the spirometer.
  • Sitting Position: The patient is seated comfortably, and a nose clip may be applied to prevent air from escaping through the nose.
  • Mouthpiece: The patient tightly seals their lips around the spirometer’s mouthpiece.
Breathing Maneuvers:
  • The patient is asked to take a deep breath in.
  • After inhalation, the patient exhales as forcefully and quickly as possible until their lungs are empty.
  • The process is repeated several times to ensure consistent and reliable results.
Bronchodilator Test:
  • In some cases, the test is repeated after the administration of a bronchodilator to assess how the medication affects lung function.

While spirometry is generally safe, some patients may experience:
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness: This may occur due to rapid or deep breathing.
  • Shortness of breath or coughing: People with lung diseases may feel breathless or cough during the test.
  • Fatigue: The repeated effort of forced breathing can be tiring.
  • Exacerbation of symptoms: In rare cases, the test can trigger an asthma attack or respiratory distress.

Spirometry is not typically performed on individuals who have recently undergone chest surgery, those with unstable heart conditions, or those who have a history of pneumothorax.

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What are the benefits Spirometry?
  • Early diagnosis: It helps in the early detection of respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD, and restrictive lung diseases.
  • Monitor lung function: For individuals already diagnosed with respiratory conditions, spirometry helps monitor disease progression and treatment efficacy.
  • Treatment evaluation: It can assess the effectiveness of bronchodilators and other medications.
  • Pre-surgical evaluation: Spirometry may be used to assess lung health before certain surgeries, especially those involving the chest or heart.

Infrastructure & Facilities

The infrastructure for spirometry testing typically includes

  • Spirometer: The main equipment that measures the volume and speed of air.
  • Computer and software: Modern spirometers are often connected to a computer that processes the data and generates reports.
  • Mouthpieces and filters: Disposable or sterilized mouthpieces are used for hygiene.
  • Observation room: A well-ventilated and quiet room to ensure patient comfort and accurate results.
  • Emergency care equipment: Oxygen supply and resuscitation equipment should be available in case of complications.
  • Trained personnel: Qualified technicians or respiratory therapists trained in performing the test.
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FAQs

No, spirometry is a non-invasive and painless procedure.

The test typically takes 15-30 minutes, depending on whether a bronchodilator test is also performed.

Patients with recent chest surgery, heart issues, or who have had a pneumothorax may be advised to avoid spirometry.

Yes, children as young as 5 or 6 years old can perform spirometry with proper guidance.

In some cases, your doctor may request periodic spirometry tests to monitor lung function over time.

The results are usually available immediately after the test, but your doctor will interpret them and discuss them with you during a follow-up.

No, spirometry does not diagnose lung cancer. It helps detect lung function abnormalities but further imaging and testing are required for cancer diagnosis.

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Copyright 2025 TRSCH - All Rights Reserve

Website Design and Development by Sterco Digitex

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