What should you know about a Coach incentive spirometer?

The device encourages you to inhale steadily and expand your lungs as fully as is comfortable. A moving marker or chamber shows the strength and pace of the breath, helping you practise technique. It may be used when illness, surgery, pain or time in bed has made deep breathing less frequent. It is an exercise aid, not a diagnostic device and not a replacement for treatment prescribed for the underlying problem.

Use it while sitting upright unless your care team gives different advice. Place your lips firmly around the mouthpiece and inhale slowly, aiming to raise the indicator without a sudden gasp. Hold the breath for the period you were taught, then breathe out and rest. Repeat only as often as instructed. Stop if you feel light-headed, and keep the mouthpiece clean and for your own use.

Get urgent help for severe breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, blue or grey lips, coughing blood or sudden confusion. Tell your healthcare team if pain, fatigue or coughing prevents you from using the device, or if your breathing becomes worse. Do not keep increasing the effort to reach a marker when doing so causes distress.

Ask how often to practise, what target is suitable, how long to hold the breath and how the mouthpiece should be cleaned. Ask whether you also need formal [spirometry](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/spirometry/) or a review of your other breathing treatments.