Respiratory
Spirometry
Spirometry is a breathing test that helps measure your lung function. One will inhale and exhale through a tube at various points in the test. This test can help determine how well your lungs are working. This test can help to determine if you have conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or any other condition that may interfere with normal lung function.
The spirometry will aid in the management and/or diagnosis of: obstructive lung diseases such as chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) and/or asthma as well as restrictive lung disease (which has various types of lung conditions that can give this pattern).
Exhaled Nitrogen Oxide
The exhaled nitric oxide (eNO) breathing test is done to measure how much nitric oxide is in your breath. It can help with the diagnosis and management of allergic asthma. High levels of nitric oxide may indicate allergic inflammation. The exhaled nitric oxide test will aid in the management and/or diagnosis allergic asthma.
How can I prepare for the nitric oxide test?
To ensure the accuracy of the test results, make sure you refrain from using an asthma inhaler, drinking caffeinated beverages, exercising or using tobacco 2 hours prior to the test.
How often do I need to have a spirometry test?
If you have been diagnosed with asthma, COPD or any other problems that may impair your lung function, it is important to periodically schedule follow-up visits with your allergist to check how well your medications are working. Respiratory tests such as the spirometry are key to evaluating how your symptoms are being controlled.
Is spirometry a safe test?
Yes, the spirometry is a very safe test. Since the test does require quite a bit of exertion, you may experience slight shortness of breath or dizziness right after you perform the test which is self-limited and quickly resolves.
Peak Flow Meter
The peak flow meter is used to measure the peak expiratory flow rate of your lungs. You will blow out as hard and as fast as possible into the meter for about 1 or 2 seconds. The highest number out of 3 will be recorded. The measurement can be used to compare to your personal best as an assessment of your lung function. The peak flow meter will aid in the management and/or diagnosis of asthma.
Is the peak flow meter a safe test?
Yes, the peak flow meter is a very safe test. Since the test does require some exertion, you may experience slight shortness of breath or dizziness right after you perform the test which is self-limited and quickly resolves.
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