Spirometry

Spirometry is a test that measures the amount of air a person's lungs can move in and out and at what rate.

To be tested:

The person places his or her mouth on the mouthpiece that is attached to a recording device (spirometer).
The person breathes in (inhales) as deeply as possible.
The person then blows out (exhales) as hard, fast, and completely as possible.

This test can be done in a doctor's office or the hospital and is not painful.

Credits

By:

Healthwise Staff

Last Revised: February 13, 2011

Medical Review:

E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Rohit K Katial, MD - Allergy and Immunology

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