Health Topics

Your child will blow into the spirometer to measure how fast they are able to move air in and out of the lungs. After successful completion, your child will run on a treadmill for 4-8 minutes to achieve maximum heart rate. They are placed on an oxygen and heart rate monitor to allow continuous monitoring. While running, they will be asked to rate on a scale of 1-10 their level of difficulty breathing. After exercise, they will continue to perform a minimal of 2 spirometry maneuvers every 5 minutes for 30 minutes. If there is a significant change in your child's lung function, they will be treated with a bronchodilator before discharge.

The test takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Timing includes explanation and practice testing.

Your child will need to wear comfortable, loose and appropriately fitting clothes and gym shoes (required). Your child should not eat 3 hours before testing; however they may drink clear liquids 1 hour prior to testing. Your child should avoid caffeinated products like coffee, tea, and cola drinks; chocolate; added sugar; and over the counter sinus / cold medications. No smoking for 24 hours before testing.

For optimal testing, it is recommended that certain medications NOT be taken prior to the test for the time periods indicated (However, if you have concerns about not taking these medications, please contact your doctor). Download the Patient Instructions
(.pdf).