Breathing test

[ceecie74]

Hi all, can any of you help, I'm freaking out!! I'm due to have a bypass on 24th Nov and have an appointment to see Dr Ahmed for breathing tests on Friday. Does anyone know what the tests consist of?

Ceecie x

 

[Paula Garner]

It's a spirometry test they use to assess your lung function. I had one at my pre op too. Don't worry it's nothing bad. Some people can have impaired lung function after surgery, because of the gas and anaesthetic.

If you do, they will give you a spirometer and some breathing exercises to do after your surgery. Honestly, don't panic, it's nothing to worry about

 

[ceecie74]

Ahh thanks Paula. I don't know why I'm suddenly getting nervous, I'm sure this is the best decision I've made in years!!

 

[sarahrob]

I had mine on the morning of my op, as Paula has said it's nothing to worry about. I had a tube in my mouth which was hooked up to a machine and had to breathe out as hard as I could for as long as I could, down the tube.
Good luck

 

[Lincs Lass]

I had to blow in to a spirometre at my pre-op appointment (which was just a small portable unit about the size of an A5 piece of paper) and then was given one after my op to make sure I breathed deeply enough.

As the others say, it's just to gauge how you are breathing and to coach you in to breathing deeply enough that after your operation you are getting your lungs working so you don't get an infection in them. Better for them to show you now than trying to tell you after your op when you just want people to leave you alone

 

[ceecie74]

Thanks Ladies, that has put my mind at rest. I'm so glad I have access to everyone's experience, it really helps. Can't wait for the op now!

Ceecie x