how to use a spirometer

what is the spirometer and how to use it

Spirometry is very important when it comes to your lungs. It measures the amount of air that you can breathe out and the time you need to do that. Numerous diseases related to lungs capacity can be diagnosed using spirometer. Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and CF, as well as other obstructive and restrictive pulmonary diseases patients rely on this simple instrument.

There are several types of spirometers. Patients with various lung diseases typically take spirometry quarterly, under medical supervision. The test takes about few minutes, and the results are available instantly. The results show the degree of obstruction or restriction of air flow within the lung.

Small personal spirometers can be mechanical or digital. Both types are simple to use, and very useful for all people having problems with their lungs. This include CF, Pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and similar problems. People with such diseases can avoid numerous serious problems if they track their lung
condition regularly.

Different diseases may affect your breathing and cause serious problems. If you check it regularly, you will be able to recognize the symptoms in time. You can inform your doctor about your lung capacity and get medical help sooner.

Incentive spirometer is mostly used after different surgeries, for people recovering from pneumonia or suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and similar diseases, or any other health condition that requires staying in bed for longer period of time. It helps you breathe properly and keeps your lungs clear and active. It can also prevent a collapse of one or both of your lungs.

During recovery period, people usually breathe shallow. Lungs cannot receive enough air this way, and fluids and mucus can obstruct their airways within one or both lungs. Built fluids can cause infections and pneumonia. That's why it is so important to breathe properly. Using spirometer may help you breathing properly, and this will keep your lungs clean and active.

Incentive spirometer can be mechanical, with simple tube to breathe in and ball showing you the amount of air breathed in and out. Digital ones are easier to use, but work on the same principle. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions about the amount of air you should breathe in in the beginning. You should practice it until you normal level is achieved. Breathe in, wait for few seconds and breathe out.

You should follow your doctor's instructions, but the usual method is to breathe this way maybe ten times in a row, at least several times a day. After completing one cycle, you should cough to remove accumulated mucus. If you are recovering from your chest or abdominal surgery, press a pillow on your incision while coughing.

Every time you use your spirometer, you should keep tracking your results and write them down to show them to your doctor. This handy little device will provide valuable information about your health condition and may prevent numerous complications. It really is very useful for recovering patients, as well as for people suffering from chronic lung diseases.

By Helene Norris