What should you know about a Wright's spirometer?

A Wright's spirometer is a type of volume-measuring spirometer. A person breathes through a mouthpiece and the device records the air that passes through it. It may be used to measure tidal volume, which is the amount of air moved in a usual breath, or to support measurement of larger breathing volumes during a supervised assessment.

A result is interpreted in context. Clinicians consider the person's age, height, symptoms, effort during the test and the reason for testing. A single reading does not diagnose a lung condition by itself, and a more formal spirometry test may be needed for a fuller picture of airflow.

Follow the clinician's instructions about how to sit, seal your lips around the mouthpiece and breathe. A nose clip may be used for some measurements. Tell the tester if you feel dizzy, have chest pain, are recovering from an infection or cannot make a good seal around the mouthpiece. Good technique matters because leaks, coughing or an incomplete breath can affect the reading.

Ask what the device is measuring in your test and whether you need to avoid a particular inhaler or activity beforehand. Do not stop prescribed medicines unless the clinician who arranged the test tells you to do so.

A spirometer is an assessment tool, not a home substitute for urgent care. Seek emergency help for severe shortness of breath, blue or grey lips, chest pain, fainting, confusion or difficulty speaking because of breathlessness. Arrange timely medical review for new wheeze, persistent cough, worsening exercise tolerance or breathlessness that interferes with usual activities.

Ask which breathing volume was measured, whether the result was technically reliable, and how it fits with your symptoms and examination. If further testing is advised, ask what spirometry involves and whether any preparation is needed.