Spirometry incentive device

An incentive device usually has a visual marker that rises when you inhale steadily. It is used to practise deeper breaths and is not the same as a spirometer used in a lung function test. Diagnostic spirometry records airflow and exhaled volume to help investigate conditions such as asthma, COPD or some causes of chronic cough. The incentive device does not confirm or rule out these conditions, and its target should be set by a healthcare professional.

Sit upright, place the mouthpiece between the lips, and breathe in slowly so the marker moves in a controlled way. Hold the breath briefly if your clinician has advised this, then breathe out normally. Clean the mouthpiece according to the manufacturer's instructions and do not share it. Stop if you become dizzy, develop chest pain or feel markedly more breathless. For formal testing, follow the appointment instructions for [Spirometry](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/spirometry/) and ask about the clinic's [Spirometer](/technology/spirometer/) setup.

Call for urgent help if breathing is severely difficult, lips look blue or grey, you cannot speak in full sentences, or you become confused or faint. An incentive device should not replace prescribed treatment or emergency assessment. Arrange a clinical review for worsening wheeze, repeated night waking, persistent cough or reduced ability to exercise. Relevant background may include [Asthma](/conditions/asthma/) or [Bronchiectasis](/conditions/bronchiectasis/).

Ask why the device has been recommended, how often to practise, what target to use, and whether your symptoms need a formal lung function test. Check how to clean it and which changes should prompt a review.