Spirometry is a well-known non-invasive test used to measure the functioning of the lungs carefully. It accurately evaluates the level of air you inhale, how much you exhale, as well as how quickly you do it. It is most times advised you monitor or go for checkups for conditions that affect breathing, like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory issues.
Note that, early detection of respiratory disorders is needed for effective treatment and management. Spirometry tests come in here, posing as a vital tool in assisting doctors carefully diagnose these conditions on time, and track their progression with time. It gives vital information that guides treatment decisions, as well as helps in maintaining respiratory health. Still trying to figure out why you need a spirometry test? Well, here are five reasons why.
Why Do I Need a Spirometry Test?
Persistent Cough or Shortness of Breath
The most common reason to go for a spirometry test is if you’re encountering persistent coughing or shortness of breath. These symptoms indicate underlying respiratory disorders like asthma, COPD, or other lung-related issues. Although occasional shortness of breath might not be an issue, if it continues, or it’s followed by a chronic cough, then this could be a sign of something deadly.
Spirometry testing assists in noting the main cause of these symptoms. By carefully measuring the functioning of the lungs, doctors can determine if the issue is somehow related to a blockage in your airways, or another type of lung issue.
Family Background of Respiratory Diseases
If you have a family background of respiratory illnesses, like asthma, COPD, or lung fibrosis, your hereditary predisposition could place you at a much higher risk of developing the same conditions. genetic factors most times play an important role in how susceptible someone is to lung issues, and early detection is required to manage this.
In this case, spirometry testing can assist in assessing your lung function, even if there are no observable symptoms.
Smoking or Exposure to Environmental Pollutants
Smoking and exposure to air pollution are two significant risk factors for lung damage. Smoking most times leads to chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and COPD, whereas air pollution contributes tributes to a wide array of respiratory problems, including asthma and bronchitis.
For smokers or people exposed to environmental poisons, spirometry testing is a significant tool for checking lung capability. It can recognize the early phases of lung damage, even before side effects show up, and assist specialists in intervening early to forestall further mischief.
Side effects of Asthma or COPD
Asthma and COPD are two of the most widely recognized respiratory issues that require spirometry testing for analysis and monitoring. Asthma regularly causes side effects like wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath, which varies in intensity. COPD, then again, includes long-term lung infections like emphysema and chronic bronchitis, shown by progressive breathing issues.
When dealing with asthma, spirometry testing can easily assess how reversible the airflow obstruction is- This right here helps in differentiating it from other conditions. In COPD, it is utilized in determining the severity of the condition and monitoring its progression over time.
Wrap Up
Spirometry testing is an indispensable tool for diagnosing, checking, and managing respiratory issues. Whether you’re encountering persistent respiratory symptoms, have a family background of lung diseases, or are exposed to harmful contaminations, spirometry can give early detection and insights into your lung health.
If you’re worried about the health of your lungs or fall into any of the categories mentioned above, you must consult your healthcare provider to have a chat about whether a spirometry test is ideal for you.