What Is a Spirometer Used For?

"As natural as breathing." How many times have we heard this phrase. However, for some people, the biological act of taking a nice, deep breath is not possible. Whether you suffer from asthma or a respiratory disorder, or are recovering from some type of surgery that has kept you laying still for any length of time, you have experienced difficulty breathing. An incentive spirometer helps with the diagnosis and treatment of lung and breathing problems.

Function

A spirometer can assist in the treatment and diagnosis of a number of respiratory related problems. Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia, smoking-related problems and post-operative respiratory problems can all be detected through the proper use of the device. It can also be used to help strengthen your lungs. As with any muscle in your body, the more you exercise your lungs, the stronger they will become.

Considerations

The spirometer measures two basic areas: air volume--the amount of air your lungs are able to hold--and air flow, which is the amount of air you can bring into your lungs. When normal, deep breathing occurs, the alveoli--or air sacs--deep in the lungs expand. The more these alveoli are brought into play, the stronger and more regular your breathing is.

Expert Insight

Understanding your breathing profile can be an important part of understanding what you need to do for a healthy life. Good breathing techniques allow you to fill your lungs to capacity. However, when a person is upset, shallow breaths can occur which will restrict air and oxygen flowing into the lungs, increasing the chance for dizziness or disorientation to occur. Use the spirometer to help evaluate your initial lung capacity. Recording this information will help both your physician to see your progress and adjust his treatment plan accordingly.

Features

Most spirometers contain basically the same parts. There will be a body made up of an air tube that will allow the air to enter or leave the devices. Inside this tube will be either a ball or regulator that will inflate or raise, giving you with a readable measurement. Measurement marks are located on the front of the tube. There will also be a breathing tube with a tip that is inserted into your mouth. Since these are usually small, hand-held devices, there may also be a handle of some sort.

How to use the spirometer

Grasp the device in one hand. Take one breath and exhale. Place your lips around the tip of the breathing tube, making sure they are tightly sealed against it. Inhale as deeply as you can and hold the breath for at least five seconds. Make a note of the measurement. This measurement is now your goal to reach. Repeat the process per your doctor's requirements. After the exercise is complete, be sure to cough a few times to eliminate any liquid that may be clogging your lungs.