Modern medicine, in its constant quest to improve people's quality of life, has developed indispensable tools for assessing the state of our bodies.
Among them is a little-known but essential test: spirometry.
This simple but significant medical procedure plays a decisive role in the screening, diagnosis and follow-up of many respiratory pathologies that can have an impact on our heart health.
Defining spirometry
Definition and principle of spirometry
So what is this famous "spirometry"?
Quite simply, it's a medical method for assessing a person's lung capacity by means of precise measurements taken while the person is breathing through a tube connected to a device called a "spirometer".
The information gathered during the test enables cardiorespiratory professionals, like us at Centre Cardio Laval, to carefully select their therapeutic strategy to ensure the patient's vital respiratory comfort.
During this relatively simple, non-invasive test, the individual is asked to inhale and then exhale forcefully into the tube connected to the "spirometer". This device measures two crucial steps:
👉 Lung volume: This is the total volume of air that can be inhaled by the lungs. It frequently varies according to each individual's age, sex, height and weight.
👉 Expiratory flow: this index represents the speed at which you expel air from the lungs. It is crucial for assessing various respiratory problems, including so-called obstructive diseases.
Importance of spirometry in lung function assessment
Spirometry is of vital importance in the early detection and systematic monitoring of chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).
The information gathered during the test not only provides the medical profession with in-depth insight into the current state of lung capacity, but also enables them to assess the effectiveness of the treatments in place.
In the event of improvement, stagnation or deterioration, treatment options can be revisited to find more effective approaches.
The difference between spirometry and other respiratory tests
During the course of your health care, it's not uncommon for a doctor to suggest other respiratory examinations.
It's important for patients to understand how spirometry differs from other types of pulmonary function tests.
👉 Whole-body plethysmography (PCE): Unlike spirometry, which measures gas exchange from the broncho-alveolar tract during a voluntary inspiratory-expiratory act, plethysmography determines the total volume of the lungs, including residual spaces not communicating with the outside.
👉 Carbon monoxide test (DLCO) : This test may be necessary in cases where specific pathologies are suspected, such as latent infection or progressive fibrosis. It measures the capacity of the lungs to transport oxygen to the bloodstream, from the alveolar-capillary barrier to the heart.
Causes and symptoms requiring spirometry
Who should have a spirometry test?
Some people are at greater risk of developing respiratory problems, and would therefore benefit from a spirometry test.
Smokers or ex-smokers who have weakened their lung function due to the toxic substances contained in cigarettes, as well as people suffering from chronic asthma, can greatly benefit from regular monitoring.
In addition, patients suffering from cardiac or respiratory diseases such as bronchitis or emphysema will be recommended this kind of examination to accurately assess their symptoms and refine the diagnosis.
Warning signs requiring spirometry
It's important to pay attention to the signals sent by your body.
These include shortness of breath after minimal physical effort, persistent coughing, wheezing or excessive amounts of mucus coughed up on a regular basis.
All these symptoms warrant a visit to your GP.
Diseases detectable with spirometry
Spirometry is one of the most reliable diagnostic tools for detecting lung diseases such as asthma, COPD and interstitial disorders.
Any problems directly affecting your respiratory tract can be effectively highlighted by this test.
How can Centre Cardio Laval help?
Cardio Laval's experience in spirometry
At Centre Cardio Laval, our experienced and dedicated team knows how important it is to have a rigorous follow-up when it comes to cardiopulmonary health.
Each of our professionals is specifically trained in spirometry protocols, guaranteeing accurate results.
Cardio Laval takes care of you when you need it
Our center doesn't just provide test results.
We also support our patients by providing them with all the information they need to understand their condition, manage the effects of prescribed medication and cope with the challenges of heart and lung disease.
We also put you in touch with a network of experts to ensure the best possible follow-up.
Why should you be concerned about the results of your spirometry test?
Interpretation of spirometry results
Spirometry gives an accurate picture of how your lungs work.
In particular, it measures forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1).
A normal result for a healthy adult would be around 80% to 120% of the "expected normal".
Values below 70-80% may indicate pulmonary obstruction or restriction.
When should you be concerned about spirometry results?
Any anomaly in these figures can be alarming, as it may indicate various lung problems.
If your values fall below the normal threshold for no apparent reason, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional.
What to do if your spirometry results are worrying
An abnormal result does not necessarily mean that something serious is going on.
This is an indicator that further investigation is warranted.
In the event of problematic results, management could include lifestyle changes, appropriate medication and regular follow-up.
How to improve your spirometry results
Even with chronic lung problems, it is possible to improve symptoms through key measures:
👉 Stop smoking
👉 Play sports regularly
👉 Scrupulously follow medical prescriptions
👉 Avoid environmental lung irritants
Protect yourself with Cardio Laval
Your heart needs attentive care, and who better to provide it than our dedicated cardiac care team?
Whether you're looking to prevent problems in the first place, or need support after a spirometry test, Cardio Laval can offer you tailor-made support.
Make an appointment today with Cardio Laval to start your journey to better cardiovascular health.
Click here book an appointment with Cardio Laval to start your journey to better cardiovascular health today. 🖥️
