Spirometry

Spirometry

Spirometry (spirometric examination) provides an objective assessment of lung function. With it, respiratory diseases can be diagnosed early and appropriate treatment can be started. It is performed to determine predispositions for occupations in which lung function plays an important role.

Spirometry is performed in both adults and children. However, it should be noted that it may not be possible to perform the test in younger patients due to difficulties in following and understanding instructions.

To schedule spirometry for children, contact the Customer Service Center at 500 900 505.

What does spirometry involve?

Spirometry involves checking the volume of air exhaled from the lungs and inhaled into the lungs and measuring the rate of airflow through the airways at various phases of the respiratory cycle. The examination involves measuring the maximum amount of air a patient can take in and out of their lungs.

The examination takes just a few minutes. It is painless and non-invasive. During the examination, patients take a seat or keep a standing position. They should not hunch over. The patient breathes through a disposable plastic mouthpiece, which should be tightly held with the mouth. Breathing through the nose is prevented by tightening the plastic clip.

The examination involves taking several calm inhalations and exhalations, and then, at a signal given by the nurse, taking in the maximum amount of air into the lungs and releasing it by exhaling as quickly and as long as possible. For readability and reliability of the results, this action is repeated several times. During the examination, the patient is instructed on the required depth and rate of inhalation and exhalation.

When is spirometry performed?

The spirometry test is performed in patients with: suspected or diagnosed bronchial asthma, diagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, prolonged expiratory phase, cyanosis, emphysema symptoms. The examination may also be ordered for the patients with: chronic cough with plenty of secretions, recurrent infections.

Usually, a baseline spirometry is performed, and sometimes also a spirometry after inhalation of a bronchodilator drug (the so-called diastolic test).

Contraindications to spirometry

abdominal or thoracic aortic aneurysms (≥ 60 mm) recent eye surgery (e.g. cataracts, glaucoma or after retinal detachment over 6 months) abdominal and thoracic surgeries recent (i.e. at the hospitalisation stage) stroke in the central nervous system pneumothorax (up to 4 weeks after recovery) myocardial infarction during the week preceding the examination. increased intracranial pressure haemoptysis of unknown cause, circulatory and respiratory failure shock and sepsis Contraindications may also include pain in the craniofacial region, dizziness, chest or abdominal pain, urinary exertional incontinence, and mental limitations. Vomiting, nausea, and coughing on the day of the examination may prevent it from being performed.

Baseline spirometry: preparation for the examination

• Patient should attend the examination in good general condition unless otherwise advised by the doctor.
• It is advisable to refrain from smoking for 24 hours before the examination (or the minimum of 2 hours, if it is a major problem).
• Thirty minutes before the test, the patient should refrain from intense exercise.
• It is also not recommended to eat heavy meals or drink strong tea, coffee or coke within 2 hours before the examination.
• It is best to wear loose clothing that does not restrict chest movement. The tie or jacket should be removed before the examination.
• It should be discussed individually with the referring physician which of the medications taken by the patient can be used on the day of the examination, and which should be discontinued.

Conduct during and after spirometry

If there are any alarming symptoms during spirometry (e.g., feeling weak, dizzy, pain, etc.), a patient must report them to the nurse performing the test. If there are any alarming symptoms after spirometry, a patient should inform the medical staff about them immediately.

The results of the examination should be consulted with a doctor.

Important! Conducting the examination requires written consent from the patient.