If you have few symptoms results can appear within normal limits with normal looking chart results. However, depending on how sensitive your bronchi and airways are, with repeated Spirometry attempts, these results can drop. Occasionally with dramatic effect on symptoms. Spirometry tests may be repeated after being given reliever medication to assess any change in values […]
FEV1: Forced Expiratory Volume 1 – This is the volume of air that is forced out in 1 second. FVC: Forced Vital Capacity – This is the volume of air that can be forced out of the lung from full inspiration to full expiration. FEV1/FVC: Spirometric ratio – This compares the amount of air that can […]
FEV1 or Forced Expiratory Volume 1 The maximum volume of air forced out from your lungs in 1 second (from full deep breath in). FVC or Forced Vital Capacity The FVC is measured by taking your biggest breath in (total lung capacity) and blowing out as fast as possible until you cannot breathe out any more. […]
When you have your test. You will be given clear instructions from staff about what you have to do before the test and how to perform the test on the day. Do ask questions if you are not sure. During the spirometry test you have to blow out as hard and as fast as you […]
Spirometry testing may be postponed If you have had recent surgery. If you have had a chest infection within the past 6 weeks as this may give unreliable results. If you have had a recent condition called pneumothorax. (This is an abnormal collection of air in the space between lungs and chest wall called the […]
[jwplayer player=”3″ mediaid=”880″] (Running time: 1 minute 41 seconds, video provided by NHS Lothian Respiratory MCN)
Before your spirometry test you may be asked: Not to take your medication, as this may be assessed during test or it may affect the results. Not to take vigorous exercise prior to testing. Not to smoke, stop smoking for a short time before your test. Do not eat a heavy meal before your test. […]
Spirometry is: A test to show how your lungs are working. One of the first tests which may be carried out to investigate any respiratory symptoms such as shortness of breath, cough or wheeze. The test can show if the narrowing of your airways is reversible or not and this helps with the diagnosis of […]
Some basic tests can be done at your GP surgery. One of these is called a peak flow test You will be asked to take a full deep breath in, close your lips around the mouthpiece to form a seal and then blow as hard and fast as you can into mouth piece. Usually three […]
