Table 2: Relative contraindications to spirometry.1

Due to increased myocardial demand or changes in blood pressure

• AMI: one week prior*

• Symptomatic hypotension

• Severe hypertension (MAP > 130 mmHg)26

• Uncontrolled atrial or ventricular arrhythmia

• Decompensated heart failure

• Untreated pulmonary hypertension

• Acute cor pulmonale

• Acute PTE

• History of cough or exertional syncope

Due to increased intracranial/intraocular pressure

• Cerebral aneurysm

• Cranial or brain surgery: 4 weeks*

• Recent cranial contusion with persistent symptoms

• Eye surgery: one week

For increased intraotic pressure

• Sinus or middle ear surgery: One week*

• Otic infection: one week*

For increased intrathoracic and intra-abdominal pressure

• Unresolved pneumothorax

• Thoracic surgery: four weeks*

• Abdominal surgery: four weeks*

• Late pregnancy

Infection control

• Confirmed or suspected active respiratory infection (COVID-19, tuberculosis or other)

• Physical conditions predisposing to transmission of infection (active haemoptysis, presence of significant secretions, oral lesions or active oral bleeding)

AMI = acute myocardial infarction.

MAP = mean arterial pressure.

PTE = pulmonary thromboembolism.

* In acute events, forced spirometry is not recommended.