What should you know about lung exerciser spirometer?

A diagnostic spirometer records the amount of air you inhale or exhale and how quickly you move it. A handheld incentive spirometer is different: it gives visual feedback while you breathe in slowly, helping you practise fuller breaths after illness, surgery, or reduced activity. The names are sometimes confused, so check which device you have and what your clinician asked you to do.

Use the mouthpiece with your lips sealed around it, sit upright, and follow the supplied instructions. Do not force a breath or chase a target if you feel dizzy, chest pain, or unusually breathless.

Ask a clinician to demonstrate the technique if the marker does not move as expected. Keep the mouthpiece clean as directed, and store the device where it will not collect dust. If it is being used for home breathing practice, take steady breaths and pause between attempts. A spirometer does not replace prescribed inhalers, oxygen, antibiotics, or other treatment.

Stop and seek urgent help for severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness, blue or grey lips, fainting, new confusion, or chest pain that does not settle. Contact your healthcare team if breathing is worsening, you cannot use the device because of discomfort, or readings repeatedly differ from the range your clinician gave you.

Ask whether your device is for testing or breathing exercise, how often to use it, what result is expected for you, and which symptoms should prompt a call. Ask whether your medicines or lung condition could affect the reading.