Spirometry

Spirometry is a key diagnostic test to assess lung and airway function. It is a simple, quick, and completely noninvasive test that measures the amount of air a person is able to inhale and exhale, and the rate at which he or she does so.
Through this test, valuable information can be obtained about respiratory capacity and the health of the respiratory system. In particular, spirometry enables:

• Check for airway obstruction or narrowing, as occurs in conditions such as asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease);
• Assess the severity of any respiratory distress;
• Monitor the progress of already diagnosed diseases over time;
• Monitor the effectiveness of drug therapies;
• Perform checks in preventive settings, especially in at-risk individuals (smokers, workers exposed to irritants, athletes, etc.).

The examination is performed by having the patient breathe through a mouthpiece connected to a device (spirometer) that records air volumes and flows. During the test, health care personnel guide the patient through a series of controlled breaths to ensure that the measurements are accurate and meaningful.
Being safe and easy to perform, spirometry can be performed at any age, and is a very useful tool both in diagnosis and for periodic monitoring of respiratory health.