What should you know about spirometry check?

You breathe into a mouthpiece connected to a spirometer. The device records the volume of air moved and the speed of exhalation. You will usually repeat the effort so the clinician can judge whether the readings are consistent. Results can support assessment of asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis, or a persistent cough, but they are interpreted alongside your symptoms, examination, and medical history.

Wear comfortable clothing and tell the clinician about chest pain, a recent operation, a respiratory infection, dizziness, or medicines that affect breathing. Follow the appointment instructions about inhalers; do not stop prescribed treatment unless the clinician tells you to. During the test, seal your lips around the mouthpiece, inhale as directed, and exhale with a strong, sustained effort. Rest if you feel light-headed.

Contact a healthcare professional promptly for worsening breathlessness, wheezing that is not settling, or a cough with blood. Seek emergency help for severe difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, fainting, confusion, or inability to speak in full sentences. A spirometry appointment is not a substitute for urgent assessment during a breathing crisis.

Ask what the readings mean for your symptoms, whether any inhaler should be withheld before testing, when results will be reviewed, and whether repeat testing or another examination is needed.