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Spirometry for children
spirometry for kids · child lung function test · breathing test for children · pediatric spirometry
Your child blows into a tube, and a device shows how well their lungs work. Often there is a game on the screen to help.
For a frequent cough, wheezing, suspected asthma, and to check how well treatment is working.
⏱ Duration: usually 15 to 30 minutes; the result is given right away
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Medicines. Sometimes inhalers are not given for a few hours before the test. Only the doctor can tell you. Do not stop them on your own.
- Health. If your child is sick, it is usually better to move the test. Call the clinic.
- Food. A light breakfast, not a big one. It is hard to blow with a full stomach.
- Talk about it. At home, explain that they will need to blow hard, like blowing out birthday candles.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Your child's inhalers
- A favorite toy
- Your child's documents
How it goes
- Your child sits up straight, and a soft clip is put on the nose
- They are shown what to do, often with a game on the screen
- They take a deep breath and blow hard into the tube
- It is repeated a few times to get a good result
- Sometimes they get an inhaler, and the test is repeated after 15 to 20 minutes
What you'll feel
- It does not hurt
- The nose clip feels a bit strange
- Blowing many times can make them dizzy or cough
Afterwards
- The result is usually given right away
- The doctor will explain it and change the treatment if needed
- Praise your child. It helps next time
Contact a doctor straight away if
- After the test, your child has trouble breathing or is wheezing, and the inhaler does not help: call emergency services
Common questions
From what age can it be done?
Usually from age 5 or 6, when a child can follow instructions. Ask your doctor.
What if it does not work?
That happens. The test is repeated, sometimes on another day.