Spirometry with Bronchodilation Test

Spirometry with Bronchodilation Test is a functional examination of the respiratory system that helps assess lung function and identify possible airway functional impairments. This test is especially important for the diagnosis and evaluation of treatment effectiveness in bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory conditions.

How is the examination performed?

1. Spirometry – the patient performs repeated maneuvers involving deep inhalation and exhalation. During the first second, the patient exhales as forcefully, deeply, and rapidly as possible, followed by a prolonged exhalation lasting at least six seconds. The inhalation and exhalation are performed using a special device that measures airflow rate and volume.
2. Bronchodilator inhalation – after the initial spirometry, the patient inhales a bronchodilator medication that helps to widen the airways. The patient then waits for a specified period to allow the medication to take effect before the next step.
3. Repeated spirometry – after the waiting period, the spirometry test is repeated to assess any changes in lung function parameters.

During the breathing maneuvers, patients may experience temporary dizziness, fatigue, or an increased heart rate. These sensations are caused by the deep and rapid breathing required during the test.

Who needs this examination?

• Individuals with suspected or confirmed lung diseases such as bronchial asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), bronchiectasis, interstitial lung diseases, sarcoidosis, and others.
• People experiencing shortness of breath, cough with or without sputum, lung sounds, smokers, vapers, as well as passive smokers and passive vapers.
• Patients with known lung conditions who need to evaluate the effectiveness of their treatment.
• Athletes and physically active individuals who want to assess their lung capacity.

When are pulmonary function tests not performed?

Pulmonary function tests should not be performed if, within the past 4 weeks, the patient has experienced any of the following:

• Thoracic or abdominal surgery;
• Pneumothorax;
• Myocardial infarction;
• Infection of the nose, paranasal sinuses, or ear;
• Surgery of the nose, paranasal sinuses, or ear;
• Eye surgery;
• Brain surgery;
• Concussion.

Or if the patient have an increased health risk:

• Aneurysm of cerebral blood vessels, aorta, or other blood vessels;
• Previous episodes of loss of consciousness, coughing fits, or forceful exhalations;
• Recent or current pulmonary embolism;
• Severe arterial hypertension;
• Uncontrolled pulmonary hypertension.

Preparation before the examination:

• Refrain from smoking and the use of intoxicating or narcotic substances for at least 24 hours prior to the test;
• Avoid heavy meals 2–3 hours before the examination;
• Avoid intense physical activity before the test;
• Arrive for the examination wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, especially on the upper body, to allow unrestricted deep and rapid breathing maneuvers;
• Consult your doctor about any medications that may affect the test results.

Please inform the medical staff prior to the examination if you have:

• Arterial hypotension, cardiac arrhythmias, decompensated heart failure, or unstable angina;
• Recently experienced a pulmonary embolism;
• Currently suffer from tuberculosis or other respiratory infections and/or are undergoing treatment for these conditions;
• Current oral mucosa lesions or bleeding.