Spirometry is a pulmonary function test used to diagnose conditions affecting the lungs and to monitor how well your lungs are working, also defined as respiratory fitness. There are different instruments that can be used in spirometry, with one of the most common devices being the incentive spirometer. The volumetric exerciser is used to help establish and maintain respiratory fitness.
Spirometry
Spirometry measures the amount of air you can inhale and exhale as a function of time. Spirometry reveals how quickly and how much air you breathe during a period of time, therefore giving results related to your lung function. Values below average may indicate that your lungs are not working properly. Spirometry can also be used to monitor respiratory fitness in both healthy individuals and those with a variety of lung conditions that affect breathing, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD.
Volumetric Exerciser Spirometer
The volumetric exerciser spirometer is a device used under the direction of a physician in order to establish, improve and maintain respiratory fitness. This spirometer utilizes deep breathing exercises to engage all of the air sacs in the lungs, thereby effectively filling the lungs during inhalation and over time, improving the inspiratory volume. This can help you improve recovery times from surgery or illness by helping keep the small airways clear. Your doctor can determine the frequency of spirometer use and recommended levels.
Incentive Spirometer
Incentive spirometers are often used during recovery from surgery as a way to keep your lungs clear. They are also used throughout recovery, much like the volumetric exerciser, to engage your lungs and aid in recovery. Your doctor increases inspiratory volumes throughout your recovery period, and typically pairs use of the spirometer with an expiratory movement, such as coughing, to encourage clearing any lung debris. Use these spirometers only under the instruction of a health care provider.
Use
Spirometers are often used after surgery on the abdomen or chest in an attempt to prevent problems with decreased lung volumes and collapsed lungs, and are also often used after COPD-related surgery. Individuals with other lung defects or breathing difficulties, such as asthma or a collapsed lung, are typically prescribed spirometer therapy. When used appropriately, spirometery can maintain your inspiratory capacity or re-establish normal inspiration patterns while assisting in keeping your airways clear.
