Spirometry – a key lung function test in the era of the Covid-19 pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, respiratory health has become even more important than ever before.

One of the diagnostic tools that plays a key role in assessing lung function is spirometry. In this article, we will learn what exactly spirometry is, when it is performed and what are the safety rules when performing this test.

What is spirometry?

Spirometry is a non-invasive test designed to measure lung capacity and air flow in the respiratory tract. It is a key tool in diagnosing and monitoring respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cystic fibrosis. Spirometry also allows you to assess the effectiveness of treatment and changes in lung function in response to various factors.

When is it performed?

Spirometry testing is performed in many different situations. It can be used for both diagnostic and monitoring purposes. Here are some examples of when it is worth undergoing spirometry:

• Diagnosis of asthma or other respiratory diseases.
• Assessment of the effects of cigarette smoking on lung function.
• Monitor the progression of your COPD disease and adjust your treatment.
• Assessment of the risk associated with exposure to toxic occupational substances.
• Assessment of respiratory capacity before planned surgery.

How is a spirometry test performed?

Spirometry testing is relatively simple and non-invasive. The patient is asked to inhale deeply and then exhale as quickly and forcefully as possible. The measurement is performed using a spirometer, which records the volume of air that the patient is able to exhale within a specified period of time.

Spirometry results include many parameters, including vital capacity, expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), and the ratio of FEV1 to vital capacity (FEV1/FVC). These values are important in assessing lung function and may suggest the presence of respiratory disease or restrictions.

Spirometry during the covid-19 pandemic. tightening safety rules

The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced new challenges in the field of medicine and diagnostics. Therefore, performing spirometry requires additional precautions to ensure the safety of patients and medical staff. Here are some rules that are especially important now:

• Compliance with strict hygiene standards, including disinfection of equipment before and after each examination.
• Establishing strict protocols for wearing masks by patients and medical staff.
• Use of personal protective equipment such as gloves and protective suits.
• Ensuring adequate ventilation in the rooms where the examination is carried out.

Can spirometry be performed at home?

In some cases, especially during the pandemic, it is possible to perform spirometry at home under the supervision of a doctor or medical technician. However, this requires appropriate equipment and staff training to interpret the results. It is worth consulting with your doctor to determine whether this option is suitable for your specific case.

Your suggestions

If you have any questions about spirometry or would like more information about it, please consult your doctor or respiratory specialist. This is the best way to get personalized advice and answers to specific questions.

Recommended articles

To learn more about respiratory health, we recommend reading the following articles:

• “Respiratory allergies: causes, symptoms and treatment”
• “How to take care of your lungs – 5 simple tips”
• “The impact of smoking on the health of the respiratory system”

Maintaining respiratory health is crucial to our overall well-being and quality of life. Therefore, it is worth taking care of it regularly and following doctors’ recommendations.