Spirometry Test
Self-Referral
A Spirometry Test is a breathing test that will help a doctor or nurse practitioner diagnose you with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and/or Asthma.
Are you 40 years old or older?
Do you smoke or have you smoked before?
Do you live in Toronto?
If you answered yes to all of the above questions, click below to see if you are eligible to self-refer!
Frequently Asked Questions
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The test usually takes 20-40 minutes.
A technician will show you how to breathe into the mouthpiece.
You will be asked to take a deep breath in and then blow out.
You are in control. The technician may say: “When you feel ready, blow out.”
You may need to try a few times so the technician can get good results.
You can pause, rest, or stop at any time.
After the test, it is normal to feel tired or a bit lightheaded.
Sit and rest for a few minutes before leaving.
Let staff know if you feel dizzy or faint.
If you are feeling very unwell on the day of your test (for example, pneumonia, fever, or a bad chest infection), please contact the Spirometry Clinic to reschedule your appointment.
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If you feel anxious during the test, take a few slow breaths. It’s okay to ask the technician to slow down or repeat instructions.
You can ask for a short break at any time.
You are not being tested or judged — this test is just to understand your breathing.
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The test results will be reviewed by your care team.
Your provider will talk to you about what the results mean.
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If you do not have a Primary Care Provider, you do not need to wait to self-refer for a Spirometry Test.
If you would like assistance in finding a Primary Care Provider, our Primary Care Access Team can help connect you! Click here to lean more!
Lung Health Resources
What is Spirometry?
Learn what spirometry is (a simple breathing test), who should get tested and what spirometry tells health-care professionals.
Canadian Lung Association
Learn how to take action to protect your lung health!
CAMH Smoking Cessation
Explore the CAMH Smoking Cessation toolkit.