Question

What breathing test measures airflow, volume, and capacity?

1) Spirometry
2) Pulmonary function test
3) Peak flow test
4) Lung capacity test

Answer 1

Spirometry is the breathing test that measures airflow, volume, and capacity, which helps diagnose and monitor respiratory conditions like asthma and fibrosis through metrics such as FEV and FVC.

Step-by-step explanation:

The breathing test that measures airflow, volume, and capacity is spirometry. This test involves measurements such as the forced expiratory volume (FEV), which indicates how much air a person can expel from the lungs in a specific time frame, usually one second (FEV1). Additionally, spirometry measures the forced vital capacity (FVC), the total air that can be exhaled forcefully. The FEV1/FVC ratio is crucial in diagnosing respiratory conditions like asthma, emphysema, and fibrosis. A high ratio suggests lung fibrosis, while a low ratio is indicative of asthma. Pulmonary function tests like spirometry are invaluable in not only diagnosing but also in evaluating the effectiveness of treatments for respiratory diseases.