What should you know about emphysema spirometry?

During spirometry, you breathe into a spirometer through a mouthpiece. You take a full breath and blow out as hard and as long as instructed. The readings show how air moves through the lungs. Emphysema is one possible cause of persistent airflow limitation; asthma, bronchiectasis and other conditions can produce different patterns. Spirometry cannot by itself show the full structure of lung damage.

Follow the clinic's instructions about inhalers, smoking and meals before testing. Wear comfortable clothing and tell the technician if you feel dizzy, have chest pain or cannot complete a blow. Bring prior results and a list of medicines. If airflow limitation is confirmed, treatment may include inhaler therapy, activity planning and support through a smoking cessation programme when relevant.

Contact a clinician promptly for worsening breathlessness, a new change in exercise tolerance, persistent cough or repeated chest infections. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, confusion, fainting or chest pain. Do not wait for routine spirometry if breathing suddenly becomes much harder.

What do my flow and volume readings suggest? Do I need repeat spirometry or imaging? Which inhaler technique and follow-up plan fit my symptoms?