What should you know about simple spirometry test?

During Spirometry, you breathe through a mouthpiece connected to a Spirometer. You take a full breath, seal your lips around the mouthpiece, then blow out with strong, sustained effort. The test may be repeated so the clinician can check whether the readings are consistent. It can help assess conditions such as Asthma, COPD, Bronchiectasis or a persistent cough, but the result is interpreted alongside your symptoms, examination and medical history. Some people are asked to repeat the manoeuvre after inhaled medicine.

Follow the clinic's instructions about inhalers, smoking and meals before testing. Wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict your chest. Tell the clinician if you feel unwell, have chest pain, recently had surgery, or find forceful blowing difficult. Sit upright, listen carefully to the instructions and give a full effort without continuing if you feel faint. Results are more useful when each attempt follows the same technique.

Tell the testing team immediately if blowing causes severe breathlessness, chest pain, dizziness or wheezing that does not settle. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, blue lips, confusion or inability to speak in full sentences. If smoking contributes to ongoing symptoms, a Smoking Cessation Programme can support a planned quit attempt; prescribed Inhaler Therapy may be discussed when appropriate.

Ask what the measured values suggest, whether you need repeat testing, if inhalers should be paused beforehand, and how the result fits with your symptoms. Ask what treatment or monitoring will follow if airflow is reduced.