What to know about IRV spirometry

The results help show whether airflow is limited and whether the pattern may fit conditions such as asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis, or other causes of chronic cough. A result is interpreted alongside symptoms, examination, medical history, and sometimes other tests. Spirometry alone does not explain every breathing problem, and a normal result does not rule out every condition.

Follow the clinic's instructions about medicines, meals, smoking, and strenuous activity before the appointment; do not stop prescribed treatment unless the clinician tells you to. Wear comfortable clothing and tell the team about chest pain, recent surgery, infection, dizziness, or difficulty maintaining a tight seal. During the test, pause if you feel unwell and report light-headedness or chest discomfort.

Spirometry can briefly cause coughing, breathlessness, or light-headedness. Tell the testing team immediately if symptoms are intense or do not settle after resting. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, fainting, new confusion, or chest pain that does not ease. Arrange follow-up if symptoms continue despite a reassuring test.

Ask what question the test is intended to answer, which medicines need special instructions, whether you may need a repeat test, and when results will be discussed. Ask how the findings fit your symptoms and whether inhaler therapy, smoking cessation support, or another assessment is appropriate.