Examinations: spirometry, PEF, and Bronchodilator test
Lung function tests, such as PEF, spirometry, and the bronchodilator test, help to assess airflow in the airways and support the diagnosis and treatment monitoring of conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The tests are non-invasive and require the patient’s active cooperation.
When to see a specialist
- Suspected or monitored asthma: The tests help to assess airway narrowing and its reversibility.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Spirometry helps to assess airflow obstruction and supports the diagnosis.
- Persistent or recurrent cough: Especially if a respiratory disease is suspected.
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing: The tests help to assess whether the symptoms may be related to an airway obstruction.
- Wheezing: This may indicate airway narrowing (e.g., due to asthma), which can be assessed with these tests.
- Assessing lung function before certain treatments or interventions: A test may be necessary based on a doctor’s decision.
- Monitoring treatment effectiveness: The tests help to assess whether respiratory treatment is improving lung function.
- Assessing the impact of smoking or other risk factors: Especially if there is a cough, shortness of breath, or other respiratory complaints.
Common symptoms
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Current or previous long-term smoking with respiratory complaints
The tests can help to assess a possible decline in lung function. -
Persistent cough
Especially if the cough lasts for a long time or recurs frequently. -
Recurrent respiratory infections
Such as pneumonia or bronchitis. -
Shortness of breath
A feeling of breathlessness during exertion, at rest, or when lying down. -
Suspicion of asthma or COPD
The tests help to confirm the diagnosis and plan treatment. -
Wheezing or gasping for air
This may indicate asthma or COPD.
How to prepare for your appointment
- Bring your ID card or another form of identification.
- Lung function tests are usually performed in the morning.
- Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, especially respiratory medications. Some medications (e.g., bronchodilators) may need to be temporarily stopped before the test.
- Avoid smoking for at least 1-2 hours before the test.
- Avoid heavy physical exertion for at least 30 minutes before the test.
- Avoid large meals and caffeinated drinks for 2-3 hours before the test.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing that does not restrict your breathing.
- Think about any questions you may have about the test and ask our staff before the procedure.
What to expect during your appointment
Reception and preparation
The procedure will be explained to you, and we will check that you have prepared according to the instructions.
PEF measurement
Your peak expiratory flow will be measured as you breathe into a special device. This can be particularly helpful for monitoring asthma but does not replace spirometry for confirming a diagnosis.
Spirometry
You will breathe into a special device to measure how much and how quickly air moves out of your lungs. The test is usually done several times to get a reliable result.
Bronchodilator test
During this test, spirometry is performed before and after you take an inhaled medication (a bronchodilator) to assess whether airflow improves with the medication.
Results
The doctor who referred you for the test will evaluate the results and discuss them with you. The results can also be found in the Health Portal. The tests usually take about 15–45 minutes, depending on which ones are performed.
Specialists providing this service
Payment & Appointment Info
Payment methods
Meliva Health Insurance covers the PEF test under Preventive Care coverage. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.
With a doctor’s referral, Meliva Health Insurance covers the PEF test under Outpatient Care coverage. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.
Other lung and respiratory tests are not covered by Meliva Health Insurance.
Referral
An appointment with a specialist is required first to assess whether the service is suitable or necessary.
Clinics offering this service
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is spirometry?
Spirometry is a lung function test that measures how much air you breathe in and out, and how quickly the air moves out of your lungs. It is one of the main tests for assessing asthma and COPD.
What is PEF?
PEF, or peak expiratory flow, measures the maximum speed at which you can exhale air. It is often used for monitoring asthma at home, but spirometry is usually needed to confirm a diagnosis.
What is a bronchodilator test?
This is a repeat of the spirometry test after you have taken a medication that opens up your airways, to assess whether airflow improves with the medication and whether the narrowing may be reversible.
Are lung function tests painful?
No, the tests are generally painless, but they may require forceful and repeated breathing, which can temporarily cause dizziness or fatigue in some people.
What do lung function tests show?
They mainly show the airflow in the airways and help to assess whether there is an obstruction and if it improves after medication. Some tests also provide additional information about lung volumes, but not all the tests listed in this package directly measure lung volume.
Do I need a referral for the tests?
Yes, because the tests are performed for a medical reason, and the need for the test is decided by a doctor.