What should you know about a PFT spirometer?

The machine records airflow and lung volume while you follow instructions through a mouthpiece. A clinician may compare readings before and after an inhaled medicine to see whether airflow changes. The result is interpreted alongside your symptoms, examination and medical history; one reading does not explain every breathing problem.

Wear comfortable clothing and tell the testing team about medicines, recent illness, chest discomfort or difficulty breathing. Follow their instructions about inhalers, meals and smoking before the appointment. During the test, seal your lips around the mouthpiece, breathe in as directed and make a strong, complete exhalation. Several attempts may be needed.

Seek urgent medical help for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, fainting, confusion or chest pain. Contact a clinician promptly if breathing symptoms are worsening, waking you repeatedly or limiting ordinary activity. Testing should not delay emergency care.

Ask what each measurement shows, whether your medicines need changing before repeat testing, and whether further assessment is needed if the result does not match your symptoms.