Lung function test

Spirometry, explained in plain English

A breathing test that measures how open your airways are — the test that confirms or rules out asthma and COPD. Takes about 40 minutes, same-day result, interpreted by a pulmonologist. $1,200 MXN.

English-speaking 5.0 · 26 Google reviews Trained at the INER Central Benito Juárez

Spirometry is the standard lung function test. You take a deep breath and blow out as hard and long as you can into a mouthpiece; the machine measures how much air you move and how fast. We repeat it after a bronchodilator (a quick-acting inhaler) and wait for it to take effect to see whether your airways open up — the key difference between asthma and COPD. It's painless, takes about 40 minutes in total, and you leave with a result the same day.

About 40 minutes

Start to finish, including the wait for the bronchodilator to take effect and the repeat test.

$1,200 MXN

As a standalone test (≈US$65–75). +$600 MXN if added to a consultation. Elsewhere in Mexico City it typically runs $1,400–$1,500.

Same-day result

Interpreted by the pulmonologist to ATS/ERS criteria, with a clear plan.

In English

Instructions and your results explained in English.

How to prepare

Avoid coffee or soft drinks for 4 hours and don't smoke for 1 hour before. Avoid a heavy meal 2 hours before. Wear loose clothing. If you use a rescue (short-acting) inhaler, hold it for 6–12 hours before if it's safe for you to do so — ask us if unsure. Bring a list or photo of your current inhalers.

Dr. William César Lara Vázquez, pulmonologist in Mexico City
Dr. William César Lara Vázquez — Pulmonologist (Neumólogo) Trained at the INER (National Institute of Respiratory Diseases). Board-certified by the Consejo Nacional de Neumología (CNN-2102). Professional licenses verifiable with Mexico's SEP (12588976 / 15595809). Member of SMNyCT, ALAT and the American Thoracic Society. 5.0 rating · 26 Google reviews.
Full profile (in Spanish) →

Frequently asked questions

Does spirometry hurt?
No. The only demanding part is blowing out as hard as you can for about 6 seconds at a time; some people cough at the end, which is expected.
How long does it take?
About 40 minutes in total. The breathing maneuvers themselves are quick, but we test you, give a bronchodilator, wait for it to take full effect, and then test again to measure the response.
Why the inhaler during the test?
To measure reversibility. If your airflow improves by ≥12% and 200 mL after the bronchodilator, it supports asthma; if it doesn't reverse, it points toward COPD. That distinction drives your treatment.
How much does it cost?
$1,200 MXN as a standalone test, or +$600 MXN when added to a consultation. Elsewhere in Mexico City the standalone test typically runs $1,400–$1,500 MXN. We confirm current pricing by WhatsApp.
Can I get it the same day I arrive?
Often yes — message us on WhatsApp with your dates and we'll find a slot.
Will I understand my results?
Yes — the pulmonologist explains what the numbers mean for you, in English, and what to do next.

Book your spirometry

Educational information reviewed by Dr. William César Lara Vázquez. It does not replace an in-person consultation, diagnosis or treatment. In a respiratory emergency in Mexico, call 911. Your personal and health data are handled under Mexico's LFPDPPP; see the privacy notice.

Información educativa revisada por el Dr. William César Lara Vázquez; no sustituye la consulta, el diagnóstico ni el tratamiento médico.