What is a common respiratory test used to assess lung function?

Spirometry is a common respiratory test specifically designed to evaluate lung function by measuring the volume and flow of air during inhalation and exhalation. It assesses various aspects of breathing, including how much air the lungs can hold and how quickly air can be expelled. This information is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory disorders.

The test typically involves the patient taking a deep breath and then exhaling forcefully into a device called a spirometer. The resulting data helps healthcare providers understand lung capacity and airflow, making it an essential tool in respiratory health assessment. The fact that it directly measures lung function distinguishes it from the other options, which serve different purposes in medical diagnostics.