What is Spirometry?

Spirometry is a simple breathing test which measures the speed and the amount of air you can breathe out. The test is used to see how well your lungs are functioning. It is used to help diagnose different lung diseases and also to monitor patients with established lung conditions.

You will be asked to take a deep breath in and then blow out into a mouthpiece connected to a spirometer, until your lungs are completely empty.

 

How is the test performed?

  • On arrival in the Day Unit your temperature will be checked and you will be asked to wash your hands
  • Your height, weight and blood pressure will be measured
  • A pre-test check list will be completed
  • In a seated position you will be asked to breathe in as deeply as you can and then blow out until you lungs are empty
  • The first blows will be slow and steady and will be repeated several times
  • The second part of the test requires to blow out as hard and as fast as you can and will also be repeated several times

 

Will I feel any pain or discomfort?

The test is not painful but can be a little uncomfortable. Some people experience light headedness. You will be encouraged to do as much as you can and given time to recover between tests.

 

How long will the test take?

The test will take around 30 minutes.

 

Is the test suitable for me?

The test requires maximum effort so it is important to make sure it is suitable and safe. You will not be able to do the test with the Community Spirometry Service if you have:

  • Any chest, abdominal or brain aneurysm
  • A current or recent chest infection (within the last 6 weeks)
  • Coughed up blood recently and the cause is not known
  • A collapsed lung
  • Had a heart attack or stroke in the last 8 weeks
  • Uncontrolled angina
  • Uncontrolled high blood pressure
  • Had eye, chest or abdominal surgery in the last 12 weeks
  • Are pregnant

 

Test preparation

Before the test you should not:
  • Have smoked for 24 hours
  • Eat a large meal within 2 hours
  • Drink alcohol within 4 hours
  • Had vigorous exercise within 30 minutes
  • Wear restrictive clothing

For your comfort please empty your bladder before the test.

If you are already taking regular inhalers or medication for your breathing please bring them to your appointment. Take your usual inhalers on the morning of the test, but please DO NOT use any of the following inhalers or nebulisers in the 4 hours before your test if possible:

  • Salbutamol/Salamol/Ventolin (Blue)
  • Bricanyl/Terbutaline (Blue)

 

IF YOU HAVE HAD A CHEST INFECTION IN THE LAST 6 WEEKS THE TEST CANNOT BE PERFORMED. PLEASE CONTACT THE SERVICE ON 01946 5853333 Option 4 TO CHANGE YOUR APPOINTMENT.

For further information please contact:
Cockermouth and Maryport ICC Hub on 01946 853333 option 4

Confidentiality

‘The Trust’s vision is to keep your information safe in our hands.’ We promise to use your information fairly and legally, and in-line with local and national policies. You have a right to understand how your information is used and you can request a copy of the information we hold about you at any time.

For further information on confidentiality contact the Information Governance Team:

Information.Governance@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 603961

Feedback

We appreciate and encourage feedback, which helps us to improve our services. If you have any comments, compliments or concerns to make about your care, please contact the Patient, Advice & Liaison Service:

pals@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 814008 or 01946 523818

If you would like to raise a complaint regarding your care, please contact the Complaints Department:

complaints@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 936302