What does spirometry testing primarily assess?

Spirometry testing is primarily used to assess lung function and breathing. This pulmonary function test measures the amount of air an individual can inhale and exhale, as well as the speed of the exhalation. It helps in diagnosing conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other disorders that can impair breathing. During the testing process, patients are asked to breathe into a device called a spirometer, which records the volume of air breathed in and out. The results can help healthcare professionals evaluate the efficiency of the lungs and track changes over time, especially in response to treatment or progression of a disease.

The other options do not relate to spirometry. Cardiac function is assessed through tests such as echocardiograms or electrocardiograms, while bowel movement function is evaluated through different gastrointestinal assessments. Nerve conduction studies focus on the nervous system and involve measuring how well and how fast nerves can transmit signals.