Spirometry (Lung Function Test)

Spirometry (Lung Function Test)

Spirometry is the most common type of pulmonary function test (PFT). It is a vital diagnostic tool used to evaluate how well your lungs are working by measuring the volume and flow of air you can move in and out of your respiratory system. The test provides your healthcare provider with critical data about the elasticity of your lungs and the condition of your airways. During a spirometry session, you will be asked to take a deep breath and then exhale as forcefully and completely as possible into a tube connected to a machine called a spirometer. This process is repeated several times to ensure accurate and consistent results. The spirometer records two key measurements: Forced Vital Capacity (FVC): The total amount of air you can forcefully exhale after taking the deepest breath possible. A reduced FVC may indicate restrictive lung disease. Forced Expiratory Volume in One Second (FEV1): The amount of air you can forcefully blow out in the first second of the test. This is a primary indicator of airway obstruction. Spirometry is essential for diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of chronic lung conditions, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. It is also used to determine the cause of shortness of breath, assess the impact of occupational exposure on lung function, and evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing treatments. Our trained pulmonary specialists ensure the test is performed correctly and safely to provide a clear picture of your respiratory health.