PFT (Spirometry)

What is Spirometry?

Spirometry is a simple, non‑invasive test that measures how much air you can exhale and how fast you can blow it out. It helps doctors understand how well your lungs are working.

Key Parameters

Why is it done?

• Routine check‑up for people with a history of smoking or occupational exposure.
• Evaluation of symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, or chronic cough.
• Monitoring of chronic lung diseases (e.g., asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis).
• Pre‑operative assessment before major surgery.

Early Detection

Spirometry can help identify signs of obstructive or restrictive lung disease, but it does not diagnose a condition on its own. A doctor interprets the results together with your symptoms, medical history, and other tests.

What an abnormal result may mean

• Low FEV1 or FEV1/FVC ratio: suggests obstructive airway disease such as asthma or COPD.
• Low FVC: may indicate restrictive lung disease or chest wall abnormalities.
• Variability in PEF: can point to poorly controlled asthma. Results can be influenced by factors like hydration, recent exercise, medications, and smoking status.

Who might be advised to get this test?

• Smokers or former smokers.
• Individuals with occupational exposure to dust, chemicals, or fumes.
• People with a family history of lung disease.
• Anyone experiencing persistent respiratory symptoms.

In short: Spirometry is a quick, painless way to assess lung function and guide further medical care.

Preparation

• No fasting required. You can eat and drink normally.
• If you are having other blood tests that require fasting, follow the fasting instructions for those tests.
• Avoid heavy exercise, smoking, and alcohol for 24 hours before the test.
• Take your regular medications as prescribed, unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Procedure

1. You will sit in a chair and wear a nose clip to keep air from escaping through the nose.
2. A trained technician will ask you to take a deep breath and then exhale as hard and fast as possible into a mouthpiece.
3. The test may be repeated 2–3 times to ensure consistency.
4. The whole procedure takes about 5–10 minutes.

What to Expect

• The test is painless; you may feel a brief urge to cough during the forced exhalation.
• No needles or blood draws are involved.

Please confirm your specific preparation instructions with your doctor or the lab. This information is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.