Occupational spirometry: what it checks

During spirometry, you breathe into a spirometer through a mouthpiece. After a full breath in, you blow out as hard and as long as instructed. The test records measures such as the amount of air exhaled and how quickly it leaves the lungs. Repeated readings can help show whether breathing changes alongside dust, fumes, vapours, or a particular work task. Asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis, chronic cough, smoking, recent illness, and technique can influence results, so one reading does not explain every cause.

Wear comfortable clothing and follow the service's instructions about meals, smoking, exercise, and medicines before testing. Tell the tester if you are unwell, dizzy, recently had chest surgery, or cannot make a strong seal around the mouthpiece. Follow the breathing instructions closely and rest between attempts if asked. Bring earlier results and describe when symptoms occur at work, at home, and during days away. A clinician may compare readings or arrange further tests.

Stop and seek urgent care for severe breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, blue lips, confusion, or breathing that does not settle after stopping the test. Contact a clinician promptly if work-related cough or wheezing is becoming more frequent, waking you, or limiting ordinary activity.

Ask what each result means, whether the pattern suggests airway narrowing, how work exposure should be monitored, and whether inhaler therapy or a smoking cessation programme could help.