What should you know about a mesi spirometer?

You breathe through a mouthpiece connected to the device while following instructions to inhale deeply and exhale forcefully. The equipment records the volume of air moved and the speed of exhalation. These measurements can help a clinician look for airflow limitation and compare your results with expected values for your age, height and sex.

A spirometer does not diagnose a condition by itself. Results are interpreted alongside your symptoms, examination and medical history. Poor technique, tiredness, a recent illness or some medicines can affect the reading.

Wear comfortable clothing and follow the clinic's instructions about eating, smoking and inhalers before the appointment. Tell the clinician about chest pain, dizziness, recent surgery, pregnancy or a respiratory infection. During the test, seal your lips around the mouthpiece and follow each breathing instruction; several attempts may be needed.

Arrange medical advice for new or worsening breathlessness, persistent wheezing, coughing or reduced exercise tolerance. Seek urgent care for severe difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, fainting, confusion or chest pressure, especially if symptoms start suddenly.

Ask what each measurement means, whether you should change any inhaler before testing, and whether repeat spirometry or another lung test is needed.