Spirometry Test Newcastle
A straightforward breathing test to assess how well your lungs are working—performed by experienced clinicians.
Spirometry shows how much air you can blow out and how quickly. It helps assess symptoms like breathlessness or a persistent cough and supports diagnoses such as asthma and COPD. At IDOS, we explain each step, coach you through the breaths and record reliable readings for review. You’ll leave with a plain-English explanation of the results and any next steps. Furthermore, this might include an inhaler review, a bronchodilator test, FeNO, or a referral if helpful.
This lung function test (spirometry) is used as a screening tool for asthma, COPD, or fitness for underwater training (EBS) in the work environment. Results are interpreted by your GP and explained in detail.
You’ll take a deep breath and blow as hard and as long as you can into a sterile mouthpiece connected to the spirometer. Usually we will ask you to do this several times to get consistent results. A nose clip may be used to keep the reading accurate. The test is safe and typically takes 10–20 minutes, with rests between attempts. We’ll tell you when to expect your results and whether a follow-up or treatment review is recommended.
Wear loose clothing and arrive well-rested. If your clinician has asked you to pause certain inhalers beforehand, please follow that guidance; otherwise use medicines as normal and bring them with you. Try to avoid strenuous exercise, smoking or large amounts of caffeine for a few hours before the test, as these can affect results.
Spirometry Test Newcastle – FAQ
If your question isn’t answered below, please contact us directly. We’ll be happy to advise the safest next step.
If you are in the UK and have urgent or emergency symptoms use NHS 111 or call 999.
Spirometry is a breathing test that measures how much air you can blow out and how fast. It helps investigate cough, wheeze and breathlessness, and supports diagnoses such as asthma and COPD. It’s also used to monitor how well treatment is working.
Wear loose clothing and arrive well-rested. Avoid strenuous exercise, smoking and large amounts of caffeine for a few hours beforehand. Only pause inhalers or other medicines if your clinician has specifically asked you to, otherwise take them as normal and bring them with you.
You’ll take a deep breath and blow as hard and as long as you can into a mouthpiece, usually several times to get consistent results. A nose clip may be used. The test is safe and typically takes 10–20 minutes, including rests between attempts.
Spirometry can show airflow obstruction (often seen in asthma or COPD) or restriction (when lung volumes are reduced). Your clinician will explain your numbers, such as FEV₁, FVC and FEV₁/FVC ratio, and what they mean for diagnosis and treatment.
Yes. Most people feel fine, though some feel briefly light-headed or cough after blowing hard. Serious problems are very rare. Tell us in advance if you’ve had recent chest surgery, a heart event, a pneumothorax, or if you’re unwell with a chest infection.
If you have a fever, a chest infection or COVID-like symptoms, it’s usually best to postpone. If in any doubt, please contact the clinic. Keep using your inhalers unless we’ve asked you to pause them for testing; if a reversibility (bronchodilator) test is planned, we’ll give clear timing instructions.
Looking for something specific? Start with one of our related services below.
Get in touch and we’ll point you in the right direction.
