Spirometry in Scarborough | Breathing Test for Asthma & COPD Diagnosis
Understanding your breathing symptoms
If you’re experiencing shortness of breath, persistent cough, wheeze, or reduced exercise tolerance, spirometry is a key diagnostic test your GP may recommend. It measures how well your lungs move air in and out, helping identify conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Book online now at https://www.onyxhealth.com.au/locations-scarborough/bookings, call 07 3062 7455 to speak with reception, email Reception.Scarborough@onyxhealth.com.au, or visit Onyx Health Scarborough at 85 Landsborough Avenue, Scarborough, QLD 4020.
Opening Hours
Monday - Friday: 8am to 5pm
Saturday and Sunday: 9am to 2pm
What spirometry measures clinically
Spirometry assesses lung function using key parameters such as forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC). These values help your GP determine whether airflow is obstructed, restricted, or normal.
In asthma, airflow limitation is typically reversible. In COPD, airflow limitation is persistent and progressive. Spirometry helps differentiate between these patterns and guides diagnosis rather than relying on symptoms alone.
When spirometry is used
Your GP may recommend spirometry if you have:
Ongoing cough or wheeze
Shortness of breath, especially on exertion
A history of smoking or environmental exposure
Suspected or known asthma
Suspected COPD
It is also used to monitor existing lung conditions and assess response to treatment over time.
GP clinical reasoning and interpretation
Spirometry is not just a test—it’s interpreted in clinical context. Your GP will assess:
Symptom pattern (episodic vs persistent)
Trigger factors (exercise, allergens, infections)
Smoking or occupational exposure history
Response to bronchodilator medication
For asthma, your GP may repeat spirometry after administering a reliever inhaler to assess reversibility. For COPD, diagnosis is based on persistent airflow limitation confirmed on spirometry, combined with risk factors.
What happens after the test
Based on your results, your GP may:
Confirm or exclude asthma or COPD
Start or adjust inhaler therapy
Develop an asthma management plan
Arrange further tests if results are unclear
Schedule follow-up spirometry for monitoring
Spirometry is often part of a broader chronic disease management plan, especially for ongoing respiratory conditions.
When to see a GP
You should book a GP appointment if you notice:
Breathlessness affecting daily activity
Persistent cough lasting more than 3 weeks
Wheezing or chest tightness
Frequent respiratory infections
Reduced exercise tolerance
Early assessment allows for accurate diagnosis and better long-term outcomes.
Ongoing care and follow-up
Respiratory conditions require ongoing monitoring. Your GP plays a central role in:
Reviewing symptom control
Adjusting medications
Monitoring lung function over time
Preventing flare-ups and complications
Spirometry may be repeated periodically to track disease progression or treatment response.
Related GP services
You may also benefit from:
Asthma management plans
COPD management in general practice
General GP appointments for respiratory symptoms
Preventive health assessments
Next steps
If you’re concerned about your breathing, a structured GP assessment with spirometry is the most reliable starting point. Early diagnosis leads to more effective management and better quality of life.
“This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.”
Book online now at https://www.onyxhealth.com.au/locations-scarborough/bookings, call 07 3062 7455 to speak with reception, email Reception.Scarborough@onyxhealth.com.au, or visit Onyx Health Scarborough at 85 Landsborough Avenue, Scarborough, QLD 4020.
Opening Hours
Monday - Friday: 8am to 5pm
Saturday and Sunday: 9am to 2pm