We are holding spirometry clinics once a month on a Thursday at SRFD.

What is Spirometry?

Spirometry (measuring the lung capacity) is the most important test to diagnose and monitor COPD.

COPD causes narrowing of the bronchial tubes (or airways), resulting in shortness of breath. The greater the narrowing, the more difficult breathing becomes. Spirometry is a test which measures exactly how much the bronchial tubes have narrowed. The spirometer measures the speed your lungs can be filled and emptied of air, giving an indication of how well your lungs are performing. This enables your doctor to make decisions about your lung condition and to plan the best treatment for you. Further spirometry tests later on can help decide whether treatments should be continued, changed, or are no longer needed.

What happens?

Having a spirometry test is straightforward. It may occasionally be tiring and make you feel a bit puffed, but usually it is not uncomfortable. The test involves taking a full breath in and blowing out with your best effort into a tube attached to the spirometer machine. Various measurements will indicate how your lungs are working. The test is performed whilst seated and usually takes 25 to 30 minutes.