WHAT IS SPIROMETRY?
Breathing is a simple but essential life function, and we often take it for granted until our breathing becomes compromised. At Concierge Medicine of Columbus, our team utilizes advanced devices and techniques to get a clear understanding of your lung health and breathing patterns. Spirometry is a popular test performed at our Columbus, GA office to help our team of physicians assess the function and strength of your lungs. Spirometry can also be used periodically if you're receiving treatment for asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) over time.
What Are The Benefits Of Spirometry?
A spirometry test at Concierge Medicine is quick and easy, with a number of great benefits, including:
- Simple, noninvasive test
- Can Identify causes of multiple breathing issues
- Measures the severity of conditions
- Testing only takes about 20 minutes
- Allows you to immediately go back to your daily routine
Who Is A Good Candidate for Spirometry?
If your Concierge Medicine of Columbus doctor suspects that you have a lung-related disorder, you may be a candidate for a spirometry test. This diagnostic tool helps your doctor understand your lung function and identify if you have any underlying problems, such as:
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Chronic bronchitis
- Emphysema
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Sarcoidosis
Based on a spirometry test, your doctor can examine obstructions or restrictions in your airflow that may pinpoint a specific condition. Once they understand your lung function better with the test results, you and your doctor can begin to treat the condition and breathe more freely.
WHICH CONDITIONS CAN SPIROMETRY IDENTIFY?
Spirometry is used to identify any difficulties patients may have with breathing and can diagnose certain conditions that impact airflow in and out of the lungs. These conditions include:
- Asthma
- COPD
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Bronchitis
- Emphysema
What Should I Expect After My Spirometry Test?
After your spirometry test, you can immediately return to your regular activities. Results are typically available as soon as the test is complete. In certain cases, we will analyze the results, or if necessary, the results may be sent to a specialist. When the analysis is complete (usually in a day or two), we can discuss the results and whether a specific treatment regimen may be beneficial for your health needs to improve breathing and function.
Spirometry FAQ
How long does a spirometry test take?
A spirometry test is very quick and easy, often only taking about 15 — 20 minutes.
Is a spirometry test painful?
No, it isn’t. A spirometry test only requires you to breathe into a special tube while you remain seated. Some patients may need to have a bronchodilator (a breathable medication) administered before their test.
Is there anything I should NOT do before a spirometry test?
Yes, there are a few things you should avoid before a spirometry test:
- Don’t smoke
- Don’t drink alcohol
- Don’t engage in vigorous exercise for at least 30 minutes before
- Avoid eating a large meal for at least two hours before
- DO wear loose, comfortable clothing
GET AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS
Experiencing lung difficulties can have a dramatic effect on a person's quality of life. Faulty breathing comes with many complications and should be treated immediately so you're able to live comfortably and enjoy life. If you have a chronic breathing condition or have noticed any worrying symptoms related to your breathing, contact Concierge Medicine of Columbus and schedule an appointment with our team.
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