Oscillometry

Your provider may ask you to skip some inhaler medication before the test. Make sure you only skip medication if your provider tells you to. You may want to bring your inhalers to your appointment. Before your test, make sure you do not smoke or vape, exercise hard, or drink alcohol for 4 hours prior. Do not eat a big meal for 2 hours before the test, and make sure you wear loose, comfortable clothes.

If you are sick or having breathing difficulties, please let your provider know before your test.

Here is what you can expect during your appointment:

• The staff member performing the test (technician) will verify your information, such as your height and age.
• You will need to sit up straight with your feet flat and legs uncrossed.
• If you are bedridden, they can perform the test laying down.
• You will need to wear nose clips and have your neck in a neutral position.

• Your lips must make a tight seal around the mouthpiece, and you will need to support your cheeks with your hands.
• You will breathe normally for about 30 seconds.
• You need to perform the test at least 3 times to make sure the results are correct. You’ll be given 8 attempts at most.
• If needed, the technician may ask you to take a breathing medicine (called a bronchodilator) and then repeat the test about 15 minutes later.

• About 15 minutes if they just need to measure your starting point.
• About 30 minutes if they need to test both before and after the breathing medicine.

No. The test does not hurt. You may feel a soft vibration or flutter in your mouth while breathing normally.

Your provider will talk with you about your results. They may tell you the same day, call you later, or ask you to come back to review the results and next steps.

Be sure to talk with your provider about what your results mean for your care. Your provider may use the test results to:

• Start new medicines
• Change the type or dose of your current medicines
• Adjust your treatment plan