Deep breathing lung exerciser

This handheld device is commonly called an incentive spirometer. It has a mouthpiece and visual markers that respond as you breathe in. The aim is a steady, deep inhalation rather than forceful blowing. Clinicians may recommend it after an operation, during recovery from illness, or when shallow breathing is a concern. The device does not diagnose every lung problem and does not replace prescribed inhalers, oxygen, or other treatment.

Sit upright, seal your lips around the mouthpiece, and breathe in slowly enough to raise the indicator toward the target. Hold the inhaled breath briefly if your clinician has advised this, then remove the mouthpiece and breathe out normally. Rest between attempts if you feel light-headed. Clean the mouthpiece as instructed and keep the device for your own use. Follow the frequency and target provided by your care team; repeated hard efforts are not more helpful.

Stop and seek urgent help for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, fainting, confusion, or chest pain that is new or worsening. Contact a clinician if the device repeatedly makes you dizzy, causes pain, or your breathing becomes harder rather than easier. A falling performance may need assessment, but the reading should be interpreted alongside your symptoms and medical history.

Ask what target and schedule apply to you, how to clean the device, and whether you should use it around meals or activity. Ask whether Spirometry is appropriate for measuring airflow and what your results would mean.