Who Should be Tested?

Spirometry is invaluable as a screening test of general respiratory health just as blood pressure provides important information about general cardiovascular health. Spirometry results combined with subjective (history) data from patients help physicians to provide an accurate diagnosis. The tables below provide a short list of indications for a spirometry test. For a complete list including contraindications, click on the form image on the left side of this page for a printable Indications Checklist.

Primary Indications for Spirometry

• Smokers with respiratory symptoms
• Shortness of breath
• Shortness of breath during exercise
• Chronic cough
• Frequent colds
• Allergic Rhinitis
• Known or Possible Asthma
• Known or Possible Bronchitis
• Known or Possible COPD
• Wheezing