Spirometry

What Is Spirometry?

Spirometry is a test used to diagnose and monitor lung conditions such as asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis and pulmonary fibrosis. It measures how much air you can breathe out, and how quickly, giving a clear picture of how well your lungs are working [1].

COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is the name for a group of lung conditions that cause breathing difficulties, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis [2]. Spirometry can also be used to monitor lung strength and capacity, which is crucial in certain sports.

When You Should Consider Spirometry

Spirometry may be recommended if you:

• Have symptoms such as breathlessness, a persistent cough, or wheezing
• Have been diagnosed with, or are being monitored for, asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis, or pulmonary fibrosis
• Need to track how a lung condition is progressing over time
• Need to check how well a current treatment or inhaler is working
• Require a lung function assessment for occupational, sporting, or other health reasons

If your symptoms need a broader assessment first, a consultant-led respiratory consultation is the place to start, and spirometry can form part of it.

How Spirometry Works

During a spirometry test, you'll be asked to breathe forcefully into a handheld device called a spirometer. The device measures the volume and speed of the air you exhale, which helps determine whether there is an underlying lung condition and how well the lungs are functioning. Results can also be used to monitor progress from breathing exercises or treatment over time.

What Is a Reversibility Test?

A reversibility test is a second spirometry reading taken after you have used a reliever inhaler, and it shows whether your airways open up in response to treatment. This helps diagnose conditions like asthma [3].

In some cases you may be asked to complete one alongside your spirometry. Your clinician will give you a reliever inhaler (four inhalations of salbutamol, such as Ventolin), ask you to wait 15 to 20 minutes, and then repeat the spirometry test to see whether there has been an improvement in your results.

What to Expect from Spirometry

Before Your Appointment

There are a few things to do in the day or two before your test:

• Avoid smoking for 24 hours beforehand [1]
• Avoid caffeine or alcohol, ideally for at least 4-6 hours prior
• Avoid a large meal for 2 hours prior [1]
• Avoid strenuous exercise for at least an hour prior
• Empty your bladder before the test
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing [1]

You should also let us know if you've had any of the following in the last 8 weeks, as this may affect whether the test can go ahead:

• Chest infection
• Ear infection
• Pneumothorax (air leak around the lungs)
• Broken ribs
• Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs)
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Unstable angina
• Eye surgery
• Thoracic or abdominal surgery

Please also tell us if you have any history of:

• Thoracic, abdominal, or cerebral aneurysm
• Uncontrolled hypertension
• Abdominal hernias

You may be advised to stop taking your regular inhalers before the test, depending on the type:

Please don't stop taking any medication without confirming with your clinician first.

During Your Appointment

You'll be seated for the test, and a soft clip will be placed on your nose to prevent air escaping. After a few practice rounds, you'll be asked to fill your lungs with air, close your lips around the mouthpiece, and exhale quickly and fully, emptying your lungs completely. This is usually repeated three times to ensure accurate results [1].

If a reversibility test is required, you'll be given an inhaler partway through and asked to repeat the breathing test after a short wait.

The appointment typically lasts between 30 and 90 minutes.

After Your Appointment

You'll be able to go home straight after the test.

Risks and Complications of Spirometry

Spirometry is considered a very safe test. Some people feel sick, dizzy, or tired afterwards, but this usually passes quickly.

You may need to avoid or delay the test if you have unstable angina, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or have recently had a heart attack, or an operation on your head, chest, stomach, or eyes [1]. Your clinician will discuss this with you in advance.

Why Choose LivingCare for Spirometry in Leeds and Sheffield

LivingCare's clinical team have the experience and equipment to deliver accurate, reliable lung function testing, whether you're being newly assessed or monitored for an ongoing condition. With convenient locations at Thorpe Park Clinic in Leeds and Canon Medical Arena in Sheffield, our specialists serve patients across Yorkshire, offering prompt appointments and clear, supportive guidance throughout the process.

There is no GP referral needed and no NHS waiting list to join. Spirometry sits alongside our wider respiratory medicine service and our sports medicine service, so whatever your result shows, the next step is already in the building.

This is exceptional care, without the wait. To arrange your test, book your appointment online.

References

1. NHS - Spirometry test: https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/spirometry/
2. NHS - Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-copd/
3. NHS - Asthma: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/asthma/

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