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Spirometry
The purpose of spirometry is to assess the patients lung condition. This is a very simple test that is used for the early detection of pulmonary disease. When used to perform a series of tests over time, spirometry can show a trend in a patients pulmonary condition. This painless test requires the patient to take a deep breath then to exhale as rapidly and completely as possible into the machine. These values are measured and calculated by a modern computerized Puritan Bennett Spirometer. This is an effort-dependent test, so the full cooperation and understanding of the patient is essential
In general the spirometry is used to:
1.Help in the clinical diagnosis and management of patients with asthma
2.Establish the presence of unsuspected small airway disease
3.Confirm the presence of suspected disease
4.Indicate the degree of asthma (slight, moderate, severe)
5.Provide valuable information for determining progress in patients undergoing therapy
Patients with a history of chronic cough, difficulty breathing, wheezing, or are currently using metered dose inhalers will be asked to perform a spirometry test during their initial evaluation. This is to establish a baseline, and to monitor the effects of their treatment plan. This will help your physician decide if your medication plan is working well or if medication changes are necessary |
