Spirometry (a simple breathing test)

What is spirometry?

Spirometry (spy-ROM-uh-tree) is a quick test used to assess how well your lungs work. The test is generally performed before and after a respiratory medication called a ‘bronchodilator’ to measure if we can improve your lung function. A spirometry helps diagnose breathing problems such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Repeat testing may be needed to keep track of your progress.

How is the test performed?

During your appointment of about 30-45 minutes, a health care provider measures how much air you breath in and out, and how well you are able to do so. You will be asked to breathe into a tube that is connected to a machine called a spirometer. To obtain the best results, the respiratory therapist provides coaching for each type of breathing required. As an example, he or she may ask you to take deep breaths, breathe out in one forced breath, keep blowing, etc. Results and specialist interpretation will then be shared with your family physician or primary health care provider.

How do I access this service?

If you are concerned about your breathing, please talk with your family physician or primary health care provider. You may then be referred to us for a spirometry or other tests.

How do I prepare for a spirometry test?

Individual should wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothes.

Horizon locations offering this service:

Facility Name Address Phone
Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital (Fredericton) 700 Priestman St. , PO Box 9000, Fredericton, New Brunswick, E3B 3B7 506-452-5400

Facility Name Address Phone
Miramichi Regional Hospital 500 Water St., Miramichi, New Brunswick, E1V 3G5 506-623-3000

Facility Name Address Phone
The Moncton Hospital 135 MacBeath Ave., Moncton, New Brunswick, E1C 6Z8 506-857-5111

Facility Name Address Phone
St. Joseph's Hospital (Saint John) 130 Bayard Dr., Saint John, New Brunswick, E2L 3L6 506-632-5555
Saint John Regional Hospital 400 University Ave., Saint John, New Brunswick, E2L 4L2 506-648-6000
Charlotte County Hospital (St. Stephen) 4 Garden St., St. Stephen, New Brunswick, E3L 2L9 506-465-4444
Sussex Health Centre 75 Leonard Dr., Sussex, New Brunswick, E4E 2P7 506-432-3100
St. Joseph’s Community Health Centre 116 Coburg St., Saint John, New Brunswick, E2L 3K1 506-632-5537

Facility Name Address Phone
Hotel-Dieu of St. Joseph (Perth-Andover) 10 Woodland Hill, Perth-Andover, New Brunswick, E7H 5H5 506-273-7100
Upper River Valley Hospital (Waterville) 11300 Route 130, Waterville, New Brunswick, E7P 0A4 506-375-5900
Tobique Valley Community Health Centre 120 Main St., Plaster Rock, New Brunswick, E7G 2E5 506-356-6600