Pre- and post-spirometry explained

You breathe forcefully into a spirometer through a clean mouthpiece. The first readings show how much air you can move and how quickly. You may then use a bronchodilator inhaler and repeat the manoeuvres after the agreed waiting period. A larger change can support airflow that responds to medicine, while little change does not by itself identify one condition. Results are interpreted with your symptoms, examination, and medical history. The test can help assess asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis, or a persistent cough.

Wear comfortable clothing and avoid a heavy meal immediately beforehand if it makes forceful breathing uncomfortable. Tell the clinician about recent chest infections, chest pain, dizziness, pregnancy, and every inhaler or medicine you use. Ask whether a reliever inhaler should be withheld and for how long; do not stop prescribed treatment without instructions. Bring your inhalers or a medication list so the team can record the correct product and timing.

Tell the clinician during testing if you develop chest pain, severe breathlessness, faintness, or unusual distress. Seek urgent help after the appointment for breathing that is rapidly worsening, inability to speak normally, blue lips, or severe chest pain. A temporary cough or light-headed feeling can occur after repeated forced breaths; report symptoms that do not settle promptly.

Ask what each measurement shows, whether the medicine changed airflow, and how the result fits your symptoms. Clarify when to use inhaler therapy, whether another test is needed, and what can improve lung function, including support for stopping smoking.