Vital Capacity Calculator
Calculate your predicted vital capacity based on age, height, and sex using medical formulas
Calculate Vital Capacity
Vital capacity differs between males and females
Age affects lung capacity
Taller individuals typically have higher vital capacity
Vital Capacity Results
Interpretation
Enter values to calculate
Formula used: Height × (21.78 − 0.101 × Age)
Input values: Age: 0 years, Height: 0.0 cm, Sex: female
Normal range: 3-5 liters for healthy adults
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
This calculator provides predicted values for informational purposes only. Actual vital capacity measurements require spirometry testing by a healthcare professional. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for medical assessment and advice.
Vital Capacity Analysis
Example Calculation
20-year-old Female, 165 cm tall
Formula: Height × (21.78 − 0.101 × Age)
Calculation: 165 × (21.78 − 0.101 × 20)
Step 1: 165 × (21.78 − 2.02)
Step 2: 165 × 19.76
Result: 3,260 cm³ = 3.26 L
Lung Volume Components
Inspiratory Reserve Volume
Extra air inhaled after normal breath
Tidal Volume
Normal breathing volume (~500 mL)
Expiratory Reserve Volume
Extra air exhaled after normal breath
VC = IRV + TV + ERV
Vital Capacity is the sum of these three volumes
Vital Capacity Facts
Normal range is typically 3-5 liters for adults
Decreases with age due to reduced lung elasticity
Higher in males compared to females
Increased by physical fitness and exercise
Reduced in restrictive lung diseases
Understanding Vital Capacity
What is Vital Capacity?
Vital capacity (VC) is the total volume of air a person can exhale after taking the deepest breath possible. It represents the maximum amount of air you can move in and out of your lungs and is an important measure of respiratory health and lung function.
Clinical Significance
- •Helps diagnose respiratory conditions
- •Monitors disease progression
- •Assesses respiratory muscle strength
- •Evaluates treatment effectiveness
Baldwin Formula
Female: Height × (21.78 − 0.101 × Age)
Male: Height × (27.63 − 0.112 × Age)
- Height: Measured in centimeters
- Age: In years
- Result: Cubic centimeters (cm³)
- Conversion: Divide by 1000 for liters
Note: This formula provides predicted values. Actual measurements require spirometry testing performed by healthcare professionals.
Factors Affecting Vital Capacity
Age
Decreases with age due to reduced lung elasticity and respiratory muscle strength
Height
Taller individuals have larger chest cavities and thus higher vital capacity
Sex
Males typically have 20-25% higher vital capacity than females
Fitness Level
Regular exercise can improve respiratory muscle strength and vital capacity
When to Seek Medical Attention
Consult a Healthcare Provider If:
- • Persistent shortness of breath
- • Chronic cough or wheezing
- • Reduced exercise tolerance
- • Family history of lung disease
- • Smoking history
Improving Lung Health:
- • Regular cardiovascular exercise
- • Breathing exercises
- • Avoid smoking and air pollution
- • Maintain healthy weight
- • Stay hydrated