What should you know about MIR spirometry?

The test compares how much air you move with how quickly you move it. A clinician may use the pattern to investigate persistent cough or breathlessness and to assess conditions such as Asthma, COPD, or Bronchiectasis. Spirometry can support a diagnosis, but symptoms, examination, smoking history, and other tests may change the interpretation. A result is not a verdict about the cause of every breathing symptom.

Wear loose clothing and follow the clinic's instructions about inhalers, smoking, food, and strenuous activity. Tell the operator about a recent respiratory infection, surgery, or difficulty with forceful breathing. Sit upright, keep a firm mouth seal, and follow the timing cues. If coughing interrupts a blow or you feel light-headed, pause and report it so the manoeuvre can be assessed safely.

Seek emergency help for severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness, blue or grey lips, fainting, confusion, or intense chest pain. Arrange review for a cough that persists, breathlessness during ordinary activity, or wheeze that is becoming more frequent. If you already use Inhaler Therapy, follow your written action plan and seek help when symptoms do not settle as instructed.

Ask whether the test quality was satisfactory, what the main measures indicate, whether bronchodilator testing or another assessment is appropriate, and what change should prompt an earlier review.