In short: Spirometry is a simple breathing test that measures how much air you can blow out of your lungs and how fast. At the clinic, the test is performed and interpreted during the visit itself, so the result can be discussed straight away.
What the test measures
- FVC: the total volume of air exhaled in one full breath out
- FEV1: the volume of air exhaled in the first second
- The ratio between the two, which shows whether there is airway obstruction
- The flow-volume curve, whose shape indicates the type of abnormality
Who it is for
- Diagnosis and follow-up of asthma and COPD
- Follow-up of interstitial lung disease and pulmonary fibrosis
- Investigation of persistent cough or shortness of breath
- Current and former smokers
- Assessment before surgery
For people being followed for asthma, COPD or interstitial lung disease, the test can be done during the visit itself and compared with previous results.
How it works
You sit down, a soft clip is placed on your nose, you breathe in as deeply as you can and then blow out as hard as possible into a mouthpiece until your lungs are empty. This is repeated several times to obtain a reliable result. The whole test takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
The clinic performs basic spirometry, without a bronchodilator. When a bronchodilator test, lung volumes or diffusing capacity are needed, we refer you to a pulmonary function laboratory.
How to prepare
- Do not smoke (including e-cigarettes and hookah) for at least one hour before the test
- Avoid a heavy meal in the two hours before
- Avoid significant physical exertion in the hour before the test, and alcohol in the 8 hours before
- Wear comfortable clothing that does not press on the chest or abdomen
- Continue your regular treatment unless you have been told otherwise
When to let us know in advance
If you have recently had surgery (especially eye, chest or abdominal surgery), a heart attack or a pneumothorax (collapsed lung), or if you are coughing up blood. In these situations it may be better to postpone the test.
Frequently asked questions
Does the test hurt?
No. It requires a short breathing effort, and sometimes causes mild dizziness or coughing that passes quickly.
How long does it take to get the result?
The result is obtained and interpreted during the visit.
Related topics
General information only; it does not replace a medical consultation. עברית