US Medical Term · tests
Spirometry
Espirometría
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Spirometry |
| Spanish (Español) | Espirometría |
| Chinese (中文) | 肺功能測試（肺活量測定） |
| Korean (한국어) | 폐활량 측정 (스파이로메트리) |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Đo chức năng hô hấp (spirometry) |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Spirometry |
| Portuguese (Português) | Espirometria |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | การตรวจสมรรถภาพปอด (Spirometry) |
| Japanese (日本語) | スパイロメトリー（肺機能検査） |
What it means
Spirometry is a simple breathing test that measures how much air you can breathe in and out, and how fast you can exhale. You will sit comfortably and breathe into a mouthpiece connected to a device called a spirometer, while wearing a nose clip to prevent air from escaping. The technician will ask you to take a deep breath and then blow out as hard and fast as possible. You will repeat this three or more times to get consistent results. The test takes about 15 minutes. It is used to diagnose and monitor conditions such as asthma, COPD, and other lung diseases. Avoid smoking and heavy exercise for a few hours before the test.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
Should I use my inhaler before the spirometry test?
¿Debo usar mi inhalador antes de la prueba de espirometría?
What does the FEV1 number mean in my spirometry results?
¿Qué significa el número FEV1 en mis resultados de espirometría?
How do I prepare for a spirometry test if I have asthma?
¿Cómo me preparo para la espirometría si tengo asma?
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026