There isn't one single method to check "air in your body" as the question is quite broad. The amount and location of air within the body influence the appropriate testing method. We can break this down by focusing on different systems and organs.
Checking Air in the Lungs
The most common way to assess the air within your lungs is through a spirometry test. As stated in MedlinePlus (https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/lung-function-tests/), this "lung function test is used the most. A spirometry test measures how much air you breathe out and how fast you can blow air out...". This helps determine lung capacity and airflow. Other lung function tests may also be used to assess air volume and movement in the lungs, as described in the Cleveland Clinic's information on lungs (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/8960-lungs).
- Spirometry: Measures the amount and speed of air exhaled.
- Other lung function tests: Can provide more detailed information about lung capacity and function.
Checking Air in the Digestive System
Air in the digestive system, such as the intestines and colon, is assessed differently. While not a direct measurement of air, a physical exam or imaging techniques might be employed to detect excess gas. A colonoscopy, as described by Johns Hopkins Medicine (https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/colonoscopy), involves "inject[ing] air into your bowel to make it easier to see," but this is part of the procedure, not a standalone check for air.
Checking Air Quality in Your Surroundings
While not directly related to air in your body, the quality of the air you breathe significantly affects your health. The CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/heat-health/about/index.html) recommends checking your "local HeatRisk and Air Quality" to understand environmental conditions that can indirectly impact the air in your body (e.g., via increased breathing rate in hot conditions).
- Local Air Quality Reports: Check local news or government websites for information on air quality index (AQI) and pollutants.
Blood Oxygen Levels
Although not directly "air," blood oxygen levels reflect your body's ability to absorb and utilize oxygen from the air you breathe. Monitoring blood oxygen saturation using a pulse oximeter can indirectly assess how effectively your body is taking in air and using the oxygen within it. As described by the Cleveland Clinic (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/22447-blood-oxygen-level), increasing the amount of oxygen your body receives through actions such as "Breathing in fresh air: Opening your windows or going outside for a walk..." can impact your blood oxygen levels.
