Pediatric procedure guide

Spirometry & Lung Function Testing for Children

Q: Can young children do spirometry?

Reliable spirometry typically requires cooperation and understanding of instructions, which most children can manage from about age 5–6. Dr. Malisetty utilizes child-friendly animated software that helps younger children understand and perform the test accurately. For children under 5, other assessment methods are used.

Q: What does a normal spirometry result look like?

The key measurements are FEV1 (air blown out in the first second) and FVC (total air blown out). Results are compared to predicted values based on your child's age, height, sex, and ethnicity. Values above 80% of predicted are generally considered normal. Dr. Malisetty will explain exactly what your child's numbers mean.

Q: How often should spirometry be repeated?

For children with asthma, spirometry is typically performed every 6–12 months to monitor control and guide treatment adjustments. It may be done more frequently during treatment changes or if symptoms are worsening. For healthy children, a single baseline measurement is usually sufficient.

What parents can expect before, during, and after this pediatric procedure.

What Is Spirometry?

Spirometry is a simple, painless breathing test that measures how well your child's lungs are working. Your child breathes into a device called a spirometer, which records how much air they can blow out and how quickly they can do it. Think of it as a "report card" for lung function.

This test is essential for diagnosing conditions like asthma, monitoring treatment response, and ensuring your child's lungs are developing properly. It can detect airway obstruction even when your child feels fine — providing objective data that guides treatment decisions.

Dr. Malisetty utilizes child-friendly spirometry software with animated incentives (like blowing out birthday candles on screen) that makes the test engaging and fun for children, ensuring reliable and reproducible results.

When Is It Recommended?

Diagnosing asthma — confirming reversible airway obstruction
Monitoring asthma control and response to treatment over time
Pre- and post-bronchodilator testing to assess airway reversibility
Evaluating chronic cough or unexplained shortness of breath
Assessing fitness for surgery in children with chronic lung conditions
Tracking lung growth and development in children with chronic respiratory diseases
Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction testing

What to Expect During the Appointment

Suitable for children aged 5 years and above (younger children may not cooperate reliably)

No fasting required — your child can eat and drink normally

Avoid bronchodilator inhalers for 4–6 hours before the test (Dr. Malisetty will advise)

Your child will breathe into a mouthpiece connected to the spirometer

They'll be asked to take a deep breath in and then blow out as hard and fast as possible

The test is repeated 3–5 times to get the best, most reproducible result

A bronchodilator (rescue inhaler) may be given, followed by repeat testing 15 minutes later

The entire session takes about 20–30 minutes

Results are available immediately and discussed with you on the spot

Aftercare & Recovery

There is no recovery needed. Spirometry is completely non-invasive. Your child may feel slightly lightheaded for a moment after blowing hard, but this passes within seconds. Normal activities can be resumed immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can young children do spirometry?

What does a normal spirometry result look like?

How often should spirometry be repeated?

Need Spirometry Evaluation?

Discuss whether this diagnostic test is right for your child during your initial consultation with Dr. Malisetty.

Request a Consultation