Spirometry
Spirometry
Measures how much air you can breathe out, and how quickly.
What it is
Spirometry is a breathing test that records the volume and speed of air you exhale. It is a cornerstone of airway assessment.
Why it is performed
It helps evaluate symptoms such as cough, wheeze or breathlessness, and is used in the assessment of conditions such as asthma and COPD.
What to expect
You will be coached to take a full breath in and blow out forcefully into a mouthpiece. The manoeuvre is repeated to obtain reliable traces.
Preparation
Wear comfortable clothing. You may be asked about inhalers taken that day. Follow any instructions given when the test is booked.
Frequently asked questions
- Does spirometry hurt? No. It requires effortful breathing and can feel tiring for a few minutes, but it is not a painful procedure.
- How long does it take? A focused spirometry session often takes around 15–30 minutes, depending on repeat attempts and additional manoeuvres.
Pulmonary Function Testing
Pulmonary Function Testing
A broader look at lung volumes and gas exchange when needed.
What it is
Pulmonary function testing (PFT) may include spirometry plus additional measurements of lung volumes or gas transfer, depending on what is being evaluated.
Why it is performed
Broader testing can help distinguish types of lung impairment and support planning when spirometry alone is not sufficient.
What to expect
You may sit in a testing space and follow breathing instructions through a mouthpiece. Some measurements use a cabin or extra manoeuvres.
Preparation
Avoid a heavy meal just before testing if advised. Bring a list of inhalers and medicines. Specific preparation is confirmed at booking.
Frequently asked questions
- Is PFT the same as spirometry? Spirometry is one part of lung-function assessment. Full PFT may add volume or gas-exchange measurements when clinically indicated.
Bronchoscopy
Bronchoscopy
A camera-guided look at the larger airways when indicated.
What it is
Bronchoscopy uses a thin flexible camera to inspect the trachea and bronchi. Samples may be taken if needed.
Why it is performed
It may be considered for unexplained imaging findings, persistent symptoms, suspected infection in selected cases, or to obtain tissue or washings.
What to expect
The procedure is performed in a controlled clinical setting with monitoring. Local anaesthetic and sedation practices vary and are explained beforehand.
Preparation
You will receive specific fasting and medicine instructions. Arrange a responsible adult if sedation is planned. Do not follow generic internet checklists in place of clinic advice.
Frequently asked questions
- Is bronchoscopy a surgery? It is an endoscopic procedure, not an open operation. Recovery expectations are explained during consent.
Six-Minute Walk Test
Six-Minute Walk Test
A timed walk that helps describe functional capacity and oxygen needs.
What it is
The six-minute walk test measures how far you can walk on a flat course in six minutes, with monitoring of symptoms and oxygen saturation.
Why it is performed
It can support assessment of exercise limitation, oxygen requirement and response to treatment in selected lung conditions.
What to expect
You walk at your own pace. Staff may record distance, heart rate, saturation and breathlessness scores. You may stop and rest if needed.
Preparation
Wear walking shoes. Use your usual walking aid. Take regular medicines unless told otherwise.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I have to walk quickly? The aim is your usual sustainable pace for six minutes, not a sprint. You may slow or pause.
Sleep Study
Sleep Study
Overnight recording of breathing, oxygen and sleep-related signals.
What it is
A sleep study records breathing effort, airflow, oxygen levels and other signals during sleep. It may be attended in a laboratory or performed with a home device when appropriate.
Why it is performed
It is used when a sleep-related breathing disorder such as obstructive sleep apnoea is suspected after clinical review.
What to expect
Sensors are placed on the body. You sleep as normally as possible. Results are interpreted with your symptoms, not in isolation.
Preparation
Follow the instructions provided with your booking. Avoid unaccustomed sedatives unless advised by your clinician.
Frequently asked questions
- Will I need to stay overnight? Some studies are laboratory-based; others use home equipment. The format is chosen after assessment.
Pulse Oximetry
Pulse Oximetry
A fingertip sensor that estimates oxygen saturation.
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What it is
Pulse oximetry estimates the percentage of haemoglobin carrying oxygen, usually via a finger or ear probe.
Why it is performed
It is a rapid, non-invasive way to screen oxygen levels during consultation, walking tests or monitoring.
What to expect
A clip sits on the finger for a short time. Nail polish or poor circulation can affect readings, which is why results are interpreted clinically.
Preparation
Usually none. Remove dark nail polish from the test finger if asked.
Frequently asked questions
- Is a normal reading enough on its own? No. Oximetry is one measurement. Symptoms, examination and other tests complete the picture.
Arterial Blood Gas
Arterial Blood Gas
A blood sample that describes oxygen, carbon dioxide and acid–base balance.
What it is
An arterial blood gas (ABG) sample is taken from an artery, commonly at the wrist, to measure oxygen, carbon dioxide and pH.
Why it is performed
It may be used when a more precise picture of gas exchange or ventilation is needed than pulse oximetry can provide.
What to expect
A brief needle sample after local checks. Pressure is applied afterwards. Discomfort is usually short-lived.
Preparation
Follow instructions given at the time. If you use oxygen, staff will advise whether to continue it during sampling.
Frequently asked questions
- Is this the same as a regular blood test? No. Venous blood tests and arterial blood gases answer different questions and are used in different situations.
Oxygen Assessment
Oxygen Assessment
Clinical review of oxygen levels at rest and, when needed, on exertion.
What it is
Oxygen assessment combines oximetry, symptoms and, in selected cases, walking tests or blood gas analysis.
Why it is performed
It helps determine whether supplemental oxygen evaluation is appropriate. Decisions are never based on a website questionnaire.
What to expect
Measurements at rest and sometimes during a walk. Results are discussed in clinic.
Preparation
Bring current oxygen prescriptions if you already use oxygen. Wear walking shoes if a walk test is planned.
Frequently asked questions
- Will I be started on oxygen from this website? No. Oxygen therapy is a medical decision made after in-person assessment.
These descriptions are general. They are not personal medical instructions. Preparation and suitability are confirmed when a test is booked.