When is spirometry used?
Spirometry is an integral tool to diagnose and monitor certain types of lung disease, such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or asthma. At Campus Health Services (CHS) spirometry is predominantly used to confirm the diagnosis of asthma, to assess efficacy of asthma treatments, and to monitor any changes in lung function. How do you prepare for spirometry? 1) Schedule a CHS appointment for basic spirometry or pre-and post-bronchodilator spirometry. 2) Avoid the following checked items for the time listed prior to spirometry as directed by your CHS provider or nurse: • Vigorous exercise within ½ hour • Short-acting bronchodilator inhaler within 4-8 hours NOTE: Do not hesitate to use your reliever inhaler if needed. • Anticholinergics within 6 hours • Long-acting bronchodilator inhaler within 12 hours • Leukotriene antagonists within 24 hours • Oral bronchodilators within 24 hours • Long-acting theophylline products within 3
