When is a pulmonary function test required

Spirometry is a simple test used to help diagnose and monitor certain lung conditions by measuring how much air you can breathe out in one forced breath.

It's carried out using a device called a spirometer, which is a small machine attached by a cable to a mouthpiece.

Spirometry may be performed by a nurse or doctor at your GP surgery, or it may be carried out during a short visit to a hospital or clinic.

Why spirometry is carried out

Spirometry can be used to help diagnose a lung condition if you have symptoms, or if your doctor feels you're at an increased risk of developing a particular lung condition.

For example, spirometry may be recommended if you have a persistent cough or breathlessness, or if you're over 35 and smoke.

Conditions that can be picked up and monitored using spirometry include:

If you've already been diagnosed with 1 of these conditions, spirometry may be carried out to check the severity of the condition or see how you're responding to treatment.

Spirometry is also a standard test for people being considered for surgery, or to check the

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