It can provide information about
- Lung volume, respiratory volume and respiratory flow rate
- Distinguishing between an obstructive (associated with constricted airways) or restrictive (associated with limited elasticity or deterioration of the lungs) pulmonary disease
- Monitoring the progression of a pulmonary illness
Procedure
During a spirometry test, the patient breathes through a mouthpiece and a tube into a device called a spirometer. The nose is held closed with a clamp. The spirometer measures and records the amount of air flowing through it and the air speed. At the instruction of the medical personnel, the patient changes the depth and strength of their breathing. The measurements taken are represented on a graph. They provide information about possible pulmonary diseases or the progression of previously diagnosed illnesses.
Duration
Approx. 30 minutes
