Inhale and exhale: how spirometry can prevent asthma exacerbations

Spirometry is a critical tool in the proactive management of asthma. Because it can provide early warnings of potential issues, it becomes an essential ally for treatment decisions, as well as a tool for educating patients, enabling them to take control of their condition. In this regard, spirometry can prevent asthma exacerbations and contribute to reducing the risk and severity of the disease.

4 ways spirometry can prevent asthma exacerbations

Spirometry is a simple non-invasive lung test that can provide valuable information on lung function by measuring the volume of air a patient is able to exhale within a specific time frame. In the following paragraphs, we will explore the advantages of spirometry in preventing asthma exacerbation.

1. Accurate diagnosis and differentiation

Before assisting patients and physicians in the management of chronic respiratory diseases, spirometry provides diagnostic clarity. Distinguishing asthma from other lung conditions with similar symptoms, like COPD, ensures appropriate management and reduces the risk of mistreatment, which could lead to exacerbations.

2. Early detection of declining pulmonary function

Once a diagnosis is obtained, it is possible to establish a patient’s baseline spirometry values, to serve as a reference for future evaluation. A patient with well-controlled asthma will typically have stable readings, with no need for treatment adjustments or medical intervention.

However, regular monitoring and testing remain crucial, as subtle declines in lung function – like a decline in FEV1, indicating asthma worsening – may happen long before symptoms arise.

Early detection of significant deviations from a patient’s baseline allows for timely adjustments in treatment plans, preventing asthma exacerbation.

3. Long-term monitoring and treatment adjustments

When coping with a chronic respiratory disease, over time regular monitoring is crucial to keep track of the condition's progress and design treatment strategies to ensure long-term stability in lung function.

This is why patients' regular testing should become part of a routine for asthma management, together with understanding one’s baseline values to recognize deviations. This allows for personalized adjustments to treatment plans, ensuring that the management approach evolves with the patient's needs. Changes in the treatment plan may vary from increased doses to the addition of controller medications, or a change in the type of medication.

4. Patient education and empowerment

Spirometry provides objective feedback on a patient’s lung function, by measuring concrete data which can be more impactful than simply acknowledging symptoms. Though it may feel like there is no escape in the beginning, such a factual understanding can empower patients to recognize early signs of asthma exacerbation and take action accordingly.

Increased patient education also translates into proactive strategies to avoid exposure to triggers, reducing the likelihood of exacerbations.

Finding the right spirometer to prevent asthma exacerbations

With over 30 years of experience in the field of Spirometry and Oximetry, MIR provides personal and professional solutions for lung health. Our wide range of products includes portable spirometers with several features, such as:

• USB and Bluetooth connection
• Pediatric incentive animations
• Traffic light system for immediate test interpretation
• SpO2 and pulse rate shown directly on the display
• Long-lasting rechargeable battery and large internal memory

Find out more on our website.