Spirometry What is Spirometry? Spirometry is a simple test used to help diagnose certain lung conditions. You may have been referred if you have symptoms such as a persistent cough or breathlessness, or your doctor feels you are at an increased risk of developing a particular lung condition. Spirometry measures lung function by testing how much air you can breathe out in slow and forced blows. The slow and forced blows are performed through a small handheld device called a spirometer as shown in the photo below. A single use mouthpiece is applied to the device and a disposable nose clip will be supplied for use when performing the slow blows. You will be seated during the spirometry test. Your height and weight will be measured and your blood pressure, oxygen saturation and heart rate will be checked prior to the test. Please bring a list of your regular medications to your appointment, also your blue salbutamol / ventolin inhaler and spacer if you have one. To complete the slow blows, you will be asked to take a deep breath in until your lungs are completely full and then gently breathe all the way to empty, making sure to blow out for as long as you possibly can. To complete the forced blows, again you will be asked to take a deep breath in until your lungs are completely full and then to blow out as hard and as fast as you can until your lungs are completely empty. You will be asked to complete a minimum of three and a maximum of eight attempts of the slow and forced blows. Sometimes after the initial test has been completed you may be advised to use a salbutamol, also known as Salamol or Ventolin, inhaler. If so after a 15-minute break you will then repeat the slow and forced blows, this is called reversibility testing. The clinician will advise you if reversibility testing is required on the day of your test. Your appointment will last for approximately 45-60 minutes.
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This service is delivered as part of the Mid and South Essex Community Collaborative, a partnership between Essex Partnership University Trust (EPUT), North East London Foundation Trust (NELFT) and Provide Community Interest Company (Provide CIC).
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