Spirometer

A spirometer is a diagnostic device that measures the amount of air you’re able to breathe in and out and the time it takes you to exhale completely after you take a deep breath. A spirometry test requires you to breathe into a tube attached to a machine called a spirometer. A spirometer is an apparatus for measuring the volume of air inspired and expired by the lungs. A spirometer measures ventilation, the movement of air into and out of the lungs. The spirogram will identify two different types of abnormal ventilation patterns, obstructive and restrictive. There are various types of spirometers that use a number of different methods for measurement (pressure transducers, ultrasonic, water gauge).

Types of spirometer

· Whole body plethysmograph : This type of spirometer gives a more accurate dimension for the factors of lung volumes as compared to other conventional spirometers. A person is enclosed in a small space when the dimension is taken.

· Pneumotachometer: This spirometer measures the flux rate of feasts by detecting pressure differences across fine mesh. One advantage of this spirometer is that the subject can breathe fresh air during the trial.

· Fully electronic spirometer: Electronic spirometers have been developed that reckon headwind rates in a channel without the need for fine morass or moving corridor. They operate by measuring the speed of the headwind with ways analogous as ultrasonic transducers, or by measuring pressure difference in the channel.

· Incentive spirometer: This spirometer is especially designed to encourage improvement of one’s lung function.

· Peak flow meter: This device is useful for measuring how well a person’s lungs expel air.

· Windmill-type spirometer: Type spirometer This type of spirometer is used especially for measuring forced vital capacity without using water. It has broad measures ranging from 1000 ml to 7000 ml. It’s farther portable and lighter than traditional water- tank type spirometers. This spirometer should be held horizontally while taking measures because of the presence of a rotating disc.

Procedure to Perform Spirometry :

1. Explain the purpose of the test and

2. demonstrate the procedure to the subject/patient.

3. Record the patient’s age, height and gender and enter on the spirometer.

4. Note when bronchodilator was last used.

5. Make the patient sitting comfortably.

6. Ask the subject to breath in until the lungs are full.

7. Pinch his nose or attach a nose clip to prevent air leakage.

8. Hold the breath and seal the lips tightly around a clean mouthpiece.

9. Blow the air out as forcibly and fast as possible. Provide lots of encouragement. Continue blowing until the lungs feel empty.

Who should not use a spirometer?

If you have an active respiratory infection, do not use your spirometer around other people. A respiratory infection is an infection in your nose, throat, or lungs, such as pneumonia or COVID-19.

Side effects and risk:

Spirometry is generally considered a safe pulmonary function test. still, a numerous complication may do during or after the test. After performing the test, a person may witness dizziness or briefness of breath. In truly rare cases, the test may beget severe breathing problems. Since the test requires some form of exertion, it is not recommended to people with habitual heart affections or those who have recently had a heart attack.