Have you had inconclusive spirometry test results?

Hi everyone,

I hope you're all doing well. I wanted to open up a discussion about something that might be relevant to many members dealing with COPD: inconclusive spirometry test results.

Spirometry is a crucial tool for diagnosing and monitoring COPD, but sometimes the results can come back inconclusive. This can be frustrating, especially when we're experiencing symptoms like shortness of breath and frequent coughing. I thought it would be helpful to explore some possible reasons why this might happen:

1. Technique issues: Accurate spirometry results depend heavily on the technique used during the test. Inconsistent effort, difficulty taking a deep breath, or frequent coughing can all affect the results.
2. Acute respiratory problems: If you're experiencing an acute respiratory problem, such as an infection or a severe coughing episode, it might interfere with the test and lead to inconclusive results.
3. Symptom variability: COPD symptoms can vary from day to day, and a single test might not capture the full picture of your respiratory health.
4. Equipment or operator error: Occasionally, issues with the spirometry equipment or the way the test is administered can lead to inconclusive or unclear results.

Has anyone else experienced inconclusive spirometry test results? What did your healthcare provider suggest as the next steps? How did you manage the uncertainty and continue with your treatment plan?

Let's share our experiences and advice to help each other navigate these challenges. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and insights!

Best,

Somya from the Carenity team🌼