Understanding Spirometry
Spirometry is a simple, non-invasive test that measures the volume and flow of air you can inhale and exhale. It is important for diagnosing conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory issues. By performing spirometry, your doctor can detect these conditions early, monitor their progression, and adjust your treatment as needed.
Spirometry
Your lungs play a big role in keeping you healthy and feeling good. A spirometry test gives your doctor a clear picture of how your lungs are working and can help diagnose problems with your breathing.
If you have any of these symptoms or risk factors, talk to your doctor who will determine if spirometry is right for you. If you experience severe symptoms, such as sudden and intense shortness of breath, chest pain, or fainting, call 000 immediately.​​
Do You Need a Spirometry Test?
You might need a spirometry test if you have any of the following:
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Shortness of Breath: Difficulty catching your breath, even when at rest.
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Persistent Cough: A cough that lasts several weeks or longer.
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Wheezing: A whistling sound when you breathe.
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Difficulty Breathing During Exercise: Struggling to keep up with your usual physical activities.
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History of Smoking: Past or current smoking can increase your risk of lung diseases.
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Exposure to Lung Irritants: Contact with pollutants like dust, fumes, or chemicals at home or work.
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Family History of Lung Diseases: Conditions like asthma, cystic fibrosis, or COPD in your family.
The Spirometry Process
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Preparation: Before the test, your doctor will explain the procedure and address your questions. You should wear comfortable clothing and avoid smoking or vigorous exercise before the test.
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Taking the Test: You'll be seated and asked to breathe into a spirometer mouthpiece by taking a deep breath and exhaling as forcefully as possible. This may be repeated several times to ensure accurate results.
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Reviewing the Results: Your doctor will analyse the results to assess your lung capacity and airflow.
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Developing a Care Plan: Based on your spirometry results, your doctor will work with you to create a personalised care plan. This may include medication, lifestyle adjustments and ongoing monitoring of your lung function.
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Follow-Up: Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to track your progress and adjust your care plan as needed.
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Support: If you have any concerns or experience changes in your symptoms, it's important to communicate with your doctor for further advice.
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Can I request a specific doctor for my child’s visits?Yes, absolutely. We strive to maintain continuity of care and understand the importance of building a trusting relationship with a specific doctor. There may be times when your preferred doctor is not available and in such cases, an appointment with another doctor may be required.
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How can I prepare my child for their visits to the doctor?Preparing your child for their doctor's visit can help if they are feeling nervous. Talk to your child about what to expect and assure them that the doctor is there to help keep them healthy. Bringing a favourite toy or book can also provide them comfort. If your children are older, explaining the importance of health checks might help them understand the process better.
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What should I bring to my child’s health check-up?For each visit, please bring your child’s health book or any records of previous visits and vaccinatons. It’s also helpful to bring a list of questions or concerns you might have, as well as a summary of your child's recent health history, such as symptoms, medications, dietary habits, or behavioral changes.
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How often should I bring my child in for routine checks and vaccinations?Routine checks and vaccinations are important for monitoring your child's health and development. Generally, appointments are scheduled according to the National Immunisation Program guidelines. However, your doctor may recommend additional visits if needed. You can discuss any aspects of your child's specific health needs with your doctor.
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What should I do if my child becomes ill outside of normal clinic hours?If your child becomes unwell outside of the regular opening hours and you feel it is an emergency, please dial 000. For less urgent needs, consider contacting the WCH Child and Adolescent Virtual Urgent Care Service or visiting an after-hours clinic.
