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Spirometry

What is spirometry?

Spirometry is a test of breathing and pulmonary function. The test uses a spirometer, which measures the amount and speed at which a person can breathe air in and out of their lungs. Healthcare providers often conduct these tests in a lab or doctor’s office.  

Many symptoms may require spirometry, such as: 

  • Shortness of breath 
  • Wheezing  
  • Coughing  

Why is spirometry important to healthcare?

Spirometry is important to healthcare because it helps identify and diagnose pulmonary conditions, thus leading to treatment and improving patients’ quality of life. 

Spirometry may diagnose conditions like: 

  • COPD 
  • Pulmonary fibrosis 
  • Asthma  
  • Chronic lung disease