NSW Central West Division of General Practice

Spirometry

The aim of spirometry in general practice is to assess variability of airflow obstruction, and to measure the degree of airflow obstruction compared to predicted normal.

Accurate measurement of respiratory function is necessary to assess and manage asthma. Successive measurements before and after bronchodilator use allow you to: 

• diagnose airway obstruction
• measure the degree of airway obstruction
• monitor the effects of treatment 
• demonstrate the presence and reversibility of airway obstruction to the patient.
• provide objective feedback to the patient about the presence and severity of asthma
• accurately back-titrate preventive medication to determine the minimum effective dose.

The diagnosis of asthma is confirmed by demonstrating the presence of variable airway obstruction.

The NAC has resources relating to spirometry including how to perform a sprirometry test, purchasing guide and educational materials and events.