What is spirometry? Discuss the types and functioning of the spirometry
Answer:-
Spirometry is a diagnostic test that measures the function of the lungs by measuring the amount and flow rate of air that can be exhaled. The test is commonly used to diagnose lung conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and interstitial lung disease.
Spirometers can be divided into two basic groups.
- Volume-measurement devices (e.g. wet and dry spirometers): Wet spirometers measure volume directly. The flow is calculated by the time derivative of the volume signal.
- Flow-measurement devices (e.g. pneumotachographsystems, mass flow meters): The most widely used system in pulmonary function labs. Volume is calculated by integration over time of the flow signal.
- Principle: The principle behind spirometry is to measure the volume of air that can be exhaled from the lungs in a given time period. By measuring the volume of air exhaled, spirometry can provide information about the functioning of the lungs and the ability of the lungs to move air in and out.
- Working: Spirometry is performed using a spirometer, a device that consists of a mouthpiece, a flow sensor, and a volume sensor. The patient is asked to exhale as much air as possible into the spirometer, and the spirometer measures the volume and flow rate of the exhaled air. The volume of air exhaled is displayed on a graph called a flow-volume loop, which provides information about the lung function.
- Interpretation of Results: The results of spirometry can be used to determine if the lungs are functioning normally and to diagnose lung conditions. For example, a decrease in the volume of air exhaled or a decrease in the flow rate of the exhaled air can indicate a restriction in the airways, which can be a sign of a lung condition such as asthma or COPD.