What should you know about one ball spirometer?

The device usually has a mouthpiece, a clear chamber, and a ball that rises when you breathe in. It is designed to encourage a slow, deep inhalation and may be used after an operation or during recovery when regular deep breaths are difficult. The ball position reflects airflow through that device, not a complete measurement of lung function.

This is different from a [Spirometer](/technology/spirometer/) used for clinical testing. Formal [Spirometry](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/spirometry/) measures flows and volumes under guided conditions and can help assess breathing problems.

Sit upright, seal your lips around the mouthpiece, and breathe in slowly enough to raise the ball without forcing the breath. Hold the breath briefly if your clinician has advised this, then breathe out normally. Rest between attempts if you feel light-headed. Clean the mouthpiece as instructed and do not share the device. Follow the frequency given by your care team rather than treating the ball position as a target for everyone.

Stop and seek advice if using the device causes chest pain, marked breathlessness, faintness, or blue lips. Get urgent help for sudden severe breathing difficulty, confusion, or chest pain that does not settle. If you cannot raise the ball compared with your usual effort, tell your clinician; the change may reflect pain, fatigue, or a breathing problem and needs context.

What breathing pattern should I use? How often should I practise? Is this device appropriate for my condition, and when should a change in performance be reported?