A spirometry test measures how well your lungs work by tracking how much air you can breathe in and out. Many people worry about “passing” this test, but the goal isn’t to pass or fail.
The key to getting accurate results is proper preparation and following the right techniques during the test.
We know that feeling anxious about any medical test is normal. Your spirometry results help doctors understand your lung health and create the right treatment plan for you.
Simple steps like wearing loose clothes, avoiding large meals, and learning proper breathing techniques can make a big difference in your test results.
At Gwinnett Pulmonary, we want you to feel prepared and confident. Understanding what to expect and how to prepare properly helps ensure your test gives doctors the clearest picture of your lung function.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before, during, and after your spirometry test.
Spirometry testing measures how well your lungs work by tracking air volume and flow during breathing. We use this pulmonary function test to diagnose lung diseases, monitor existing conditions, and evaluate treatment success.
We recommend spirometry testing when you experience breathing problems that need investigation. Common symptoms include persistent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness.
Your doctor may order this test if you have risk factors for lung disease. These include smoking history, workplace exposure to dust or chemicals, or family history of respiratory conditions.
We also use spirometry for routine monitoring of chronic lung conditions. If you have asthma or COPD, regular testing helps us track disease progression.
Key reasons for spirometry testing:
Pre-surgical evaluation is another important use. We check your lung function to reduce breathing complications during and after operations.
Spirometry measures specific values that show how your lungs perform. The test records the amount and speed of air you can breathe in and out.
Primary measurements include:
We compare your results to normal values based on your age, height, weight, and gender. Results below 80% of predicted values may indicate lung problems.
The test involves breathing into a mouthpiece connected to a spirometer device. You take the deepest breath possible, then blow out as hard and fast as you can.
We usually repeat this process three times to ensure accurate readings. Sometimes we give bronchodilator medication between tests to see if your airways open better.
We use spirometry as the primary tool for diagnosing asthma and COPD. Different lung diseases create distinct patterns in test results.
Asthma typically shows airway blockage that improves with bronchodilator medication. We can measure this improvement to confirm the diagnosis.
COPD presents with reduced airflow that doesn’t fully reverse with medication. The FEV1/FVC ratio helps us distinguish between emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
Conditions diagnosed with spirometry:
We also identify restrictive lung diseases where total lung capacity decreases. These conditions show different patterns than obstructive diseases like asthma.
Getting ready for your spirometry test involves making specific changes to your eating, medications, activities, and clothing. These steps help us get the most accurate results about your lung capacity and breathing function.
Avoid heavy meals for at least 2 hours before your spirometry test. Large meals can make you feel uncomfortable during the breathing exercises.
A full stomach can push against your diaphragm. This makes it harder to take the deep breaths we need for accurate results.
Light snacks are usually fine if you’re hungry. Just avoid anything that makes you feel stuffed or bloated.
Stay away from alcohol for at least 4 hours before your test. Alcohol can affect your breathing patterns and coordination.
Water is always okay to drink. Staying hydrated won’t hurt your test results.
Stop using rescue inhalers 4 hours before your spirometry test. This includes medications like albuterol or other bronchodilators.
We need to see how your lungs work without medication help. Using your inhaler too close to the test can make your results look better than they really are.
Ask your doctor which other breathing medications to avoid on test day. Some medications need to be stopped 24 hours before testing.
If you have severe shortness of breath without your medication, call us right away. Your safety comes first.
Never stop prescribed daily medications unless your doctor tells you to. Only rescue medications usually need to be paused.
Avoid hard exercise for 30 minutes to 1 hour before your test. Heavy activity can make you short of breath and tired.
Light walking to our office is fine. Just don’t run, lift weights, or do anything that makes you breathe hard.
Don’t smoke for at least 1 hour before your spirometry test. Some doctors recommend waiting 4 to 24 hours.
Smoking can irritate your airways and affect how much air flows through your lungs. This can make your lung capacity measurements less accurate.
If you vape or use other tobacco products, avoid those too. Any substance that affects your breathing should be avoided.
Wear loose, comfortable clothes that don’t squeeze your chest or stomach. Tight clothing can limit how much air you can breathe in.
Loosen your belt before the test starts. A tight belt can restrict your breathing and give us false results.
Avoid turtlenecks, tight bras, or anything that feels snug around your ribs. We want nothing to limit your chest movement.
Sit up straight during the test with your feet flat on the floor. Don’t cross your legs or slouch.
Remove any heavy jewelry or accessories that might get in the way. Comfort helps you focus on breathing correctly during the test.
Many patients make simple errors that can affect their spirometry results. The most important things to avoid are taking certain medications too close to your test time, continuing unhealthy habits like smoking, and not preparing yourself physically and mentally.
Bronchodilators are the biggest concern before your spirometry test. These medications open your airways and can make your lung function appear better than it actually is.
We recommend stopping short-acting bronchodilators 4-6 hours before your test. This includes:
Long-acting medications may need to be stopped 12-24 hours before testing. Always check with us first before stopping any medications.
Some patients worry about stopping their inhalers. However, this short break is necessary for accurate results.
Other medications that can affect spirometry include some blood pressure drugs and certain supplements. Bring a complete list of all medications to your appointment.
Never stop medications without talking to your doctor first. We will give you specific instructions about which medications to avoid and when.
Smoking is the most important habit to avoid before spirometry. Stop smoking at least 6 hours before your test.
Even one cigarette can affect your airways for hours. This includes cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and vaping products.
Heavy meals should be avoided 2-4 hours before testing. A full stomach can press against your diaphragm and limit how deeply you can breathe.
Caffeine can also affect your results. Limit coffee, tea, and energy drinks on test day.
Alcohol should be avoided for 24 hours before your spirometry test. It can affect your coordination and ability to follow instructions.
These habits can make your lung function appear worse than it really is. Even small amounts can change your test results.
Loose, comfortable clothing is essential for accurate spirometry results. Tight clothes around your chest or waist can limit your breathing.
Avoid belts, tight bras, or restrictive shirts on test day. You need to be able to take the deepest breath possible.
Anxiety can significantly affect your spirometry test. Many patients feel nervous about breathing into the machine.
Practice deep breathing exercises before your appointment. This helps you feel more comfortable with the breathing patterns.
Physical tiredness can also impact your results. Get a good night’s sleep before your test.
We will coach you through each step of the spirometry test. The most important thing is to follow our instructions exactly and give your best effort on each breath.
Our spirometry testing process takes about 20 minutes and uses precise equipment to measure your lung capacity. We guide you through each step to ensure accurate results from this important pulmonary function test.
When you arrive for your spirometry test, we will first record your height, weight, age, and medical history. These details help us calculate accurate reference values for your results.
You will sit comfortably in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. We ask that you wear loose clothing that does not restrict your chest movement.
The test has two main parts:
Each part may be repeated up to 8 times to ensure we get consistent, accurate readings. This repetition is normal and helps us verify your lung function properly.
We will place a nose clip on your nose to ensure all air flows through the spirometer mouthpiece. The device connects to a small machine that records your breathing patterns.
The spirometer mouthpiece requires a tight seal with your lips. We will show you how to position it correctly before starting the test.
For accurate measurements:
During forced breathing tests, you will take the deepest breath possible, then blow out as hard and fast as you can. This measures how much air your lungs hold and how quickly you can empty them.
We coach you through each breath to help you give your best effort. Don’t hesitate when we give instructions – delayed starts can affect your results.
Spirometry is a test of effort, so your participation directly affects the accuracy of results. We encourage you to give your maximum effort on each attempt.
Key strategies for success:
If you feel lightheaded between attempts, tell us immediately. This is normal but we want to ensure your comfort and safety.
Stay focused during each measurement. Think about emptying your lungs completely rather than stopping early.
Once your spirometry test is complete, we’ll analyze several key measurements to assess your lung function and capacity. These results help us identify breathing problems like asthma or other lung conditions and determine the best treatment plan for you.
Your spirometry results focus on two main measurements that tell us how well your lungs work.
FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second) measures how much air you can blow out in the first second of your hardest breath. This number shows us if your airways are blocked or narrow.
FVC (Forced Vital Capacity) measures the total amount of air you can blow out after taking your deepest breath. This tells us about your overall lung capacity.
We also calculate the FEV1/FVC ratio by dividing these two numbers. This ratio is very important for diagnosis.
Measurement What It Shows Normal Range
FEV1 Airway blockage 80% or higher of predicted
FVC Total lung capacity 80% or higher of predicted
FEV1/FVC Breathing pattern 0.70 or higher
We compare your results to normal values based on your age, height, weight, and gender.
Normal results mean your FEV1 and FVC are 80% or higher of what we expect. Your FEV1/FVC ratio should be 0.70 or above.
Obstructive patterns show up when your FEV1/FVC ratio drops below 0.70. This suggests conditions like asthma or COPD where airways become narrow or blocked.
Restrictive patterns appear when your FVC is low but your ratio stays normal. This means your lungs can’t expand fully.
We express results as percentages of predicted normal values. Numbers below 80% often indicate lung problems that need treatment.
Based on your spirometry results, we’ll create a plan that fits your specific needs.
If results are normal, we may recommend repeat testing in the future if you have symptoms or risk factors.
If we find asthma, we’ll discuss medications like inhalers and create an action plan. We may repeat the spirometry test with bronchodilator medicine to see how well treatment works.
For abnormal results, we might order additional lung function tests or refer you to a lung specialist.
We’ll schedule follow-up appointments to track changes in your lung function over time.
Regular monitoring helps us adjust treatments and catch problems early.
Your lung conditions need proper management before spirometry testing to get accurate results.
Well-controlled asthma and proper medication timing help ensure the test shows your true lung function.
We see better spirometry results when your asthma is well-controlled before testing.
Your asthma is considered controlled if you use your quick-relief inhaler less than 3 times per week and don’t wake up at night with symptoms.
Signs of well-controlled asthma:
If your asthma isn’t controlled, the test results may not show your best possible lung function.
This can make it harder for doctors to see how well treatments are working.
We recommend scheduling your test when you feel your breathing is at its best.
Avoid testing during flare-ups or when you’re having more symptoms than usual.
Your doctor may want to see both your current lung function and your best possible function.
This helps them understand how much room there is for improvement with treatment.
We strongly advise talking with your doctor about your medications before spirometry testing.
Some medications can affect your test results, and your doctor may give you specific instructions about timing.
Common medication adjustments:
Never stop your medications without medical guidance.
Your safety comes first, and your doctor knows your specific needs.
Some tests require you to take medications during the appointment.
This helps doctors see how well your lungs respond to treatment.
We call this reversibility testing.
Your doctor might want to test you both before and after you take your bronchodilator.
This shows how much your airways can open up with medication.
We need you to recognize when your symptoms are too severe for accurate testing. Shortness of breath, chest tightness, or wheezing may mean you should reschedule your appointment.
Symptoms that may affect testing:
Contact your doctor if you’re having worsening symptoms before your test date. They can help decide if you should proceed with testing or wait until you feel better.
During the test, tell us immediately if you feel short of breath or uncomfortable. We can stop the test at any time if needed.
Your lung function should be stable on the day of testing. This means your breathing feels typical for you, not worse than usual.
Spirometry is a powerful tool for diagnosing and managing lung conditions—but its accuracy depends on how well you prepare. By following these tips, avoiding common mistakes, and working with a trusted team, you give yourself the best chance at clear, reliable results.
At Gwinnett Pulmonary & Sleep, we guide you every step of the way—from pre-test instructions to expert interpretation and long-term care.
Call 770‑995‑0630 or schedule your spirometry test today to get the answers you need with compassion and precision.
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