The test is performed with you sitting upright. A clip will be placed on your nose, and you will get a mouthpiece that is connected to the spirometry machine. You will put the mouthpiece in your mouth and then be instructed to take deep breaths, after which you will blow out hard and fast. This will be repeated to get the best results.
 
The technician or doctor who is performing the test may give you medication to open your airways and then repeat the test. This is to see if the medication improves your ability to breathe. The test can take approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
 
There will be instructions for you to follow leading up to the test. You may be instructed not to use certain inhalers or medications. It is best to wear loose-fitting clothing and not eat a big meal before the test. The test is not painful.
 
It is best to take your regular medications on the day of the test unless you are told not to. It is best not to smoke for at least 6 hours prior to the test. If you use a short-acting inhaler, it is best not to use it for at least 6 hours prior to the test, if possible. Your doctor may give you other instructions, depending on your own situation.

Spirometry tests measure the size of your lungs and the volume of air that you can exhale in one second after you have taken a deep breath. The first measurement is called the forced vital capacity, or FVC. This measures the amount of air your lungs can hold. The second is the forced expiratory volume in one second or FEV1. This measures your rate of exhalation in one second after taking a deep breath.
 
The result of the spirometry test is the ratio of these two measurements. The amount you can exhale in one second (FEV1) when measured against the volume of your lungs (FVC) is what gives this ratio. If your FEV1 value is 4 and your FVC value is 5, then your ratio is 80%. You are able to breathe out in one second. 80% of the air that you breathe in fills your lungs. Any value that is 80% or higher is considered to be normal.

Spirometry tests can help diagnose lung conditions if you have symptoms or if the doctor believes that you may be at risk of certain lung conditions.
 
The most common lung problems that spirometry tests are used for are asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. If you have been diagnosed with one of these conditions, a spirometry test can be used to check the severity of the condition and whether it is being treated properly.

Pulmonary function tests are tests that measure a person’s ability to move air in and out of the lungs. They can also measure how well oxygen is getting into the bloodstream. These are noninvasive tests that indicate how well the lungs are functioning. They can measure lung capacity, volume, rate of flow, and oxygen exchange. Spirometry tests fall under the general heading of pulmonary function tests and are the most common of this type.
 
Bridgewater Primary Care can help you understand how spirometry tests can help. They have a knowledgeable and caring staff that can help with many medical concerns. Give us a call and make an appointment. We are always happy to hear from you. We are located at 711 W Center St West Bridgewater, MA 02379. We serve patients from West Bridgewater MA, Bridgewater MA, Taunton MA, Middleborough MA, Plymouth MA, Pembroke MA, Braintree MA, Mansfield MA, Stoughton MA, Brockton MA, Wareham MA, Somerset MA, Attleboro MA, Abington MA, and surrounding areas.