Milmedika

What does spirometry measure?

The spirometry test provides important information that helps in diagnosing lung diseases and allows for monitoring lung health. The test measures the maximum amount of air a person can inhale and exhale, as well as how much air they can exhale in the first second of the test. It typically lasts 10-15 minutes.

Who needs a spirometry test?

Spirometry should be performed on individuals who:

• Experience shortness of breath, wheezing, or difficulty breathing, either during physical exertion or at rest.
• Are current or former smokers.
• Have been coughing for a long time.
• Are already using medication for lung conditions.
• Need it as part of preoperative preparations, routine check-ups, occupational health assessments, sports evaluations, or other specific situations.

When should spirometry be avoided?

Spirometry should not be performed on individuals who:

• Have had a recent heart attack (within the last month).
• Are coughing up blood of unknown cause.
• Have a pneumothorax or fresh pulmonary embolism.
• Have unstable cardiovascular status.
• Have recently undergone eye surgery, or surgeries involving aneurysms (thoracic, abdominal, or cerebral), or abdominal and chest surgeries.
• Have acute conditions that interfere with performing the test (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea).

How to prepare for a spirometry test?

• Wear comfortable clothing that will not restrict your movement.
• Do not eat at least 2 hours before the test, and avoid heavy physical exertion 30 minutes before the test.
• Do not consume alcohol 2 to 4 hours before the test.
• Smoking is prohibited for at least 30 minutes before the test, though it is recommended not to smoke for 24 hours before testing.
• Before the test begins, the patient should wait in the waiting room for 10-15 minutes, breathing calmly.

If the patient uses inhalation therapy, it is important that they:

• Do not take short-acting bronchodilators 6-8 hours before the test.
• Do not take long-acting bronchodilators 12 hours before the test.
• Do not use tiotropium, indacaterol, glycopyrronium, or theophylline 24 hours before the test.

How is a spirometry test done?

Before the test, the medical staff will explain its purpose and how it is performed. The patient places the mouthpiece with an antibacterial filter onto the device. During the test, the patient should sit upright with their feet flat on the floor, and a clip will be placed on their nose to prevent breathing through the nose. The patient should hold the mouthpiece tightly with their lips to prevent air from escaping.

Possible issues during the test

Deep exhalations, which are required for this test, can be difficult for some individuals. If the patient feels tired or dizzy during the test, they can ask for a break before attempting again. Coughing may also occur during the test, so it is important for the patient to completely empty their lungs before starting a new inhalation.

What do the test results indicate?

If spirometry results show an impairment in lung function, the doctor may ask the patient to inhale a bronchodilator (a medication that helps with breathing) and repeat the test after 10-15 minutes. If the medication improves breathing, it may indicate treatable lung issues.

What if the results are normal?

Normal spirometry results don’t necessarily mean a person is completely healthy. This is especially true for those who have had asthma-like symptoms in the past, smokers, or individuals exposed to polluted environments, as they may still be at risk for lung disease.

Are additional tests necessary?

If symptoms come and go, as is often the case with asthma, the doctor may suggest repeating the test. Spirometry is also useful for monitoring existing lung conditions. In some cases, additional tests may be needed, such as spirometry after physical exertion or after inhaling substances that could trigger airway constriction.

Dr. Mirko Šebek