What should you know about handheld spirometry device?

Spirometry compares the air you can move out with how quickly you can do so. A handheld unit may help track a pattern in conditions such as [Asthma](/conditions/asthma/), [COPD](/conditions/copd/), or [Bronchiectasis](/conditions/bronchiectasis/). Effort, posture, recent activity, coughing, illness, and inhaler use can change the result. A home device cannot by itself distinguish the cause of an abnormal reading, and a full assessment may require supervised [Spirometry](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/spirometry/).

Learn the manoeuvre from a healthcare professional, use the same position and device each time, and seal your lips around the mouthpiece. Breathe in fully, then blow hard and continue as instructed. Record the best result requested by your care plan alongside symptoms and medicines. Clean the mouthpiece as directed and do not share it. If smoking is relevant, a [Smoking Cessation Programme](/treatments/lifestyle-and-wellness/smoking-cessation-programme/) may be discussed as part of respiratory care.

Get emergency help for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, confusion, fainting, chest pain, or inability to speak in full sentences. Contact your clinician promptly when readings repeatedly worsen, wheezing becomes difficult to control, or usual activities cause increasing breathlessness. Do not delay urgent care because one home reading appears normal.

Ask whether you need home monitoring or supervised testing, which values matter, and what change should trigger contact. Check how to coordinate readings with [Inhaler Therapy](/treatments/medical-management/inhaler-therapy/) and whether your technique should be reviewed.