Respiratory and Sleep Exams

🫁 What is a spirometry test and why do it?
Spirometry is a simple test that measures lung capacity and airflow.
It is used to diagnose or monitor respiratory conditions such as:

• Asthma

• Chronic bronchitis

• COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

This test is often recommended in cases of chronic cough, shortness of breath, or as part of a preoperative evaluation.

😴 What is a polysomnography (sleep test)?
Polysomnography is a comprehensive overnight exam, performed either at home or in a sleep lab, that records:

• Breathing patterns

• Heart rate

• Movements

• Blood oxygen levels during sleep

This test is essential for diagnosing sleep apnea, significant snoring, or other sleep disorders.

🌙 Why measure nighttime oxygen saturation?
Nighttime oxygen saturation evaluates the level of oxygen in your blood during sleep using an oximeter.
This test is useful for:

• Detecting nocturnal hypoxia

• Complementing a sleep apnea screening

• Monitoring patients with chronic lung diseases