Spirometry – a Key Diagnostic Test at OpenMed

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What is Spirometry?

Spirometry is a basic pulmonary function test that evaluates lung capacity and airflow through the airways during different phases of the respiratory cycle. It is essential for diagnosing and monitoring respiratory conditions, such as bronchial asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

During the examination, the patient breathes through a mouthpiece while the spirometer records respiratory parameters, including:

• FEV1 – Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second
• FVC – Forced Vital Capacity
• PEF – Peak Expiratory Flow

Spirometry is a simple, non-invasive test that can be performed on both adults and children.

Indications for Spirometry

Spirometry is recommended for patients with:

• Bronchial asthma or suspected asthma
• Chronic cough with excessive sputum production
• Recurrent respiratory tract infections
• Shortness of breath, wheezing, reduced exercise tolerance
• Suspected COPD or emphysema
• Initial diagnostic tests for interstitial lung diseases (e.g., pulmonary fibrosis)

It is also advisable for smokers over 40 years of age or individuals exposed to risk factors, such as toxic substances or bioaerosols in the workplace. For preventive purposes, spirometry should be conducted at least every two years.

Contraindications to Spirometry

Spirometry is not recommended for patients with:

• Hemoptysis of unknown origin
• Uncontrolled arterial hypertension
• Recent myocardial infarction (within the last week)
• Aortic or cerebral aneurysm
• Recent neurosurgical procedures (within 4 weeks)
• Recent ophthalmic surgery or retinal detachment
• Postoperative pain in the abdominal or chest area (within 4 weeks)
• Pneumothorax (up to 4 weeks after healing)

Additional contraindications include nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.

Types of Spirometry at OpenMed

1. Basic Spirometry

• No referral required
• Evaluates basic lung function parameters

2. Spirometry with Bronchodilator Test

• Referral required
• Performed after administering a bronchodilator agent available at the facility
• Useful for diagnosing asthma and COPD

Preparation for the Test

To ensure reliable results, the patient should follow these guidelines:

• Avoid taking inhaled medications on the day of the test.
• For several hours before the test:
  • Refrain from eating large meals.
  • Do not drink strong tea, coffee, or cola-type beverages.
  • Avoid smoking cigarettes and e-cigarettes.
• Do not engage in strenuous physical activity immediately before the test.
• Wear loose clothing that does not restrict breathing.
• Carefully follow the instructions given by the healthcare professional.

Test Procedure

1. The patient is weighed and measured to adjust spirometric norms.
2. The patient sits upright in a comfortable position.
3. A nose clip is applied to prevent breathing through the nostrils.
4. The patient breathes through a mouthpiece, performing controlled inhalations and exhalations as instructed by the physician.
5. The breathing cycle is repeated several times.
6. After a deep inhalation, the patient performs a maximum, prolonged exhalation.

During the examination, the patient should report any worrying symptoms such as dizziness or weakness.

Spirometry at OpenMed – Location and Price

Spirometry is available at OpenMed Warsaw Wola, Wschowska 8. We invite you to take advantage of this new service!

Spirometry is one of the key tests for diagnosing lung diseases – we invite you to visit OpenMed for comprehensive diagnostics and professional pulmonary care!

📞 Appointments and details: 22 100 45 20 or 22 100 46 20

Check the cost of tests, procedures, and other services in our price list.