Spirometry: Understanding Lung Function Tests

When working with spirometry, a medical test that records the amount and speed of air you can inhale and exhale. Also known as pulmonary function testing, it helps doctors see how well your lungs are working and spot problems early.

Why Spirometry Matters for Everyday Health

Pulmonary function test, the broader category that includes spirometry, plethysmography, and diffusion studies gives a clear picture of airway obstruction, restriction, and gas exchange. When the results show reduced airflow, doctors often turn to inhaler therapy, medications like bronchodilators and steroids delivered directly to the lungs. This link is why spirometry is a cornerstone for managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD, a progressive lung disease caused mainly by smoking) and asthma. A typical spirometry session measures forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1); the ratio of these numbers tells you if the airways are narrowed. Doctors compare the numbers to predicted values based on age, height, sex, and ethnicity, then decide whether a bronchodilator test is needed to see if medication improves airflow.

Beyond diagnosis, spirometry guides treatment decisions for many conditions you’ll see in our article collection. For example, the Tiova inhaler (tiotropium) guide discusses how long‑acting bronchodilators work best when spirometry confirms a persistent airflow limitation. Knowing your baseline numbers also helps when you travel with a respiratory condition, as highlighted in the bipolar disorder travel article’s advice on carrying medication and medical summaries. In short, a good spirometry report becomes the reference point for choosing the right inhaler, adjusting doses, and monitoring disease progression. Below, you’ll find practical guides, drug comparisons, and safety tips that all tie back to the information spirometry provides, so you can make informed decisions about your lung health.