SPIROMETER test

[Evie]

I went for one of those lung tests.  I did research about the test but I was totally surprised how hard the test was to get through. I imagine most of the regulars here have had to endure this test ... was it this hard for everyone?

Firstly I wasn't allowed to use my puffers that morning - and my appointment wasn't till noon.  I was unbearably breathless during my shower - then getting dressed took a half hour. I was so exhausted I asked for help putting on my shoes.  I didn't even have the energy to tie them.  Walking to the car had me gasping for air, and its not really very far.  Usually I find it easy to do the calming pursed lip breathing technique but not that morning.  Same when I walked into the clinic.  It took 10 minutes for me calm down enough to talk to anyone. 

Then the test itself exhausted me further. I wasn't getting it right, so odd to try to breath proper with that thing in my mouth. I thought for sure I was going to pass out. I was grateful when I was finally okayed to use my rescue puffer.  After 15 minutes I had to do the breathing test 4x more. I don't feel it was easier though. 
I have not heard the results of the test. Will it tell me I need a different puffer, will it tell me where on the scale of 1-4 I am, will it tell me I need an oxygen tank?  

[sallybrown]

Dear Evie - I agree...doing that test can be rough!

I always schedule mine as early in the day as possible.

Your results will show how your lung volumes compare to a “normal” set of lungs that have your same characteristics (age, sex, height, weight, race, etc.) That value is the “predicted” number - what you blow out into the machine is the “% of predicted”. This is used to determine how severe your lung disease is.

The test results after you took your inhaler will be compared to your baseline or original numbers. This will tell if there is any improvement (and how much) after using the medication (reversible disease). Some people’s lung function doesn’t change after inhaler use (non-reversible disease).

Doctors use this test to tract progression of your disease.

Make sure you get a copy of your results.

Hope this info helps. There is so much to know. Hang in there!

[Evie]

YES! Thank you, your reply is very helpful. 

I read about the tests and was quite surprised how difficult it was for me. I actually have very good air in and out capabilities, in normal circumstances. (nothing in my mouth) I was NOT expecting my performance to be so poorly.

You can tell this is all new to me, sweet that.  I felt very discouraged and really needed to hear your 'hang in there' suggestion.

Also thank you for recommending I ask for copies of my test/s. I am sure I won't understand the paperwork though, but since I can expect to have do this test again sometime in the future it would be smart to have a comparison. 

I will be talking to my family Doctor on Monday about the results ... 

[sallybrown]

Glad the info was useful.

I suggest you make a folder where you put your medical test results paperwork. I get copies of ALL my results. Blood draws, X-rays, ultrasounds, procedures, etc. I don’t understand the finer points of most of it but I like to have my records. More than once I have had to “remind” doctors of what tests were done. Most things in my physicians’ offices are now on-line...this leads to much loss of info for a variety of reasons.

Hope you are feeling better!

[jade]

My spirometry test in the doctor office end up terrible and poor results. That was in the past. For the last 4- 5 years I go to the Hospital, here in Australia, they have the department that does that. Now is normal almost pleasant experience, even my results are different. Take care and stay well.

[jim]

I go to the hospital once a year to get my tests done, like Jade does.

[lavishgail]

Me 3. But my doctors office happens to be in the hospital! I'm not the new one anymore! I thought I will never understand any of this crap I have'! Now after all these years here I'm still learning. I have an appt. For that test either end of this month or next month!