Hospital tests

3) Exercise Spirometry

Treadmill and exercise cycle

Treadmill and exercise cycle

Some people will have Spirometry tested after a period of exercise.

  • This test involves either running or walking briskly on a treadmill or cycling on a static bicycle.
  • The tests begins with the person having Spirometry measurements taken after a period of inactivity.
  • The person then starts exercising, increasing intensity until maximum effort is reached, while the heart rate and breathing rate are monitored, for approximately 8 minutes.
  • The test then measures Spirometry which is repeated at 2 minute intervals for 15 minutes. This monitors any changes or deterioration in lung function. This demonstrates the degree of irritation in the airways which is caused by exercise.