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Spirometry

Spirometry is a device that is used to measure the amount of air a person's lungs can move in and out and at what rate.

To be tested:

  • The person places his or her mouth on the mouthpiece that is attached to a recording device (spirometer).
  • The person breathes in (inhales) as deeply as possible.
  • The person then blows out (exhales) as hard, fast, and completely as possible.

This test can be done in a doctor's office or the hospital and is not painful.

Author Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Caroline S. Rhoads, MD
- Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Harold S. Nelson, MD
- Allergy and Immunology
Last Updated May 15, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: May 15, 2007
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