What does it mean...spirometry question.

[Willow7733]

I recently had a spirometry, and I was told my lungs are at 56%. Could someone tell me what that means? I just nodded so much information was given to me at once, I should have written some of it down.

[Claire-Rose]

Your asthma is still not under control as it should be 80% or more

[Willow7733 in reply to Claire-Rose]

Oh. Probably will be sent for another one then.

[Claire-Rose in reply to Willow7733]

Probably did they do reversiblity where they make you take your inhaler and see if it makes it go up

[Willow7733 in reply to Claire-Rose]

No, I was in to get an action plan and she noticed I was having trouble speaking. So she rolled in a portable spirometry. I couldn’t complete it four times, but the fifth go at it she said we are stopping. I was really getting tired. So she called my family doctor and tried to call the pulmonologist I am with, and found out he moved (no wonder I haven’t seen him in a year). So I have an appointment with my family doctor on Tuesday (face to face) to discuss my spirometry. I have an appointment to see a new pulmonologist the next week (face to face). Maybe my family doctor will have me go for those tests before I see the specialist?

[Claire-Rose in reply to Willow7733]

Wow it sounds like you’re having a hard time with your asthma I hope you get seen soon and put on the right treatment to help you

[Willow7733 in reply to Claire-Rose]

I have a major flare twice a year. I can count on it happening in the fall and in the spring. Sometimes, once during the winter. This one I was expecting because I am working way too much. I need a break...to catch my breath. No pun intended. Haha 😆

[Putnam Asthma Captain]

Also depends on your age..

[Willow7733 in reply to Putnam]

She had my age, and weighed me, and measured my height? Then did the spirometry.

[kdr112]

Hello Willow! Sorry you are having so many problems with your asthma. What type of provider did the spirometry? Did they put you on steroids? Were you wheezing or short of breath?

In order to fully evaluate your lung function you will need a Pulmonary Function Test. Your pulmonologist may order that. The % is based on several criteria such as age, weight, etc.

Since you originally posted this, have you seen your GP and Pulmonologist?

[Willow7733 in reply to kdr112]

I saw a respiratory therapist and she did it in her office. I was having a lot of trouble talking and was wheezing quite a bit. She called my GP right from her office and I was put on prednisone 40mg for 6 days. About three days later,, I saw my GP face to face and he decided another burst of 40mg was needed for five days. He made an appointment for me to see a new pulmonologist (mine had moved away). I am waiting for a call from them to get an appointment (which probably won’t be for a while since Covid and everything).

[kdr112 in reply to Willow7733]

I hope you are feeling better and less wheezy. Have you ever had a full pulmonary function test?

[Willow7733 in reply to kdr112]

Thanks! And I have, a few years ago. I had the challenge test too. I didn’t do too well on that.