Lung Function Testing (Spirometry) for COPD

Spirometry is a simple test that measures how much (volume) and how fast (flow) you can move air into and out of your lungs. Spirometry is useful for monitoring your lung health. When performed yearly, spirometry measurements help to detect lung damage before extensive damage has occurred.

When to Have Spirometry

Pulmonologists at National Jewish recommend that all adults perform spirometry as part of their routine physical exam. In particular, spirometry is recommended for current and former smokers and individuals who have been exposed to chemicals or irritants in their environment or workplace. 

If your doctor orders a chest x-ray to determine whether you have COPD, you will need to have spirometry. This is because a chest x-ray cannot detect COPD in the early stages of the disease. Spirometry is the key to early detection of lung damage and COPD.

Receive a free spirometry test at one of our events in the Denver area.

What to Do If You Have Abnormal Test Results

You should talk to your doctor if your spirometry results are abnormal. There are many possible reasons for an abnormal test result, and your doctor may want to order more tests to find the reason.

What you can do to make your lungs better will depend on why your numbers are abnormal. If you smoke, stop smoking. Stopping smoking is the single most important intervention you can make to improve lung and overall health. 

It is important to preserve the lung function you have. Certain medication may help to improve your lung function, depending on the cause of the problem. Although there is no current cure for COPD, many drugs can partially improve airflow obstruction and associated symptoms of COPD.