Understanding The Usage And Importance Of Spirometers

By Kathy Kaufman


Spirometers are devices that are used to measure breathing functions within the lungs. This medical device is used to test the breathing capacity of the lungs. Patients are asked to breathe in a tube that is connected to this device. Patients that are receiving care for pulmonary conditions use this device to monitor their condition.

Various tests are performed using this device. This equipment is created to be sensitive to shifts in air pressure. It can measure subtle airflow changes in and out of the lungs. These devices produce a graphical readout that shows the airflow and the amount of time of the test. The readings permit the physician to determine how much air the patient is inhaling and exhaling over a certain period of time.

The first device of this kind was a tube that was placed into water. When the tube moved up and down it showed the pattern of breathing of the patient. There was a pen attached to the machine that would graph the results. A trained technician would then read the results and could monitor the lung capacity. There are other types of related devices that measure breathing and lung capacity.

Technicians must receive special training to use this device. When patients use this type of device for the first time, they are given a quick test run to get comfortable with the device. Once they are comfortable with the process, the actual test is given and the data can be collected. There are usually three patterns of breathing that are tested in order to get a range of different values to determine the patient's condition.

This tool will not calculate total lung capacity. But it does measure the amount of air coming in and out of a person's lungs. Individuals suffering from acute bronchial health issues can still show a high lung volume because this test will not show how much air is passed through the tube. A number of various devices do measure air volume in and out of the lungs.

With this type of test, a physician will be able to determine if the patient has an impairment affecting their breathing. This will determine the course of treatment. In many cases, medication is required to help the individual breathe easier. This device can diagnose problems related to asthma as well as a number of other breathing conditions. There are many chronic illnesses that can be detected with this device.

Individuals that have chronic lung disorders are tested using this type of device. It is very effective in determining the root of the breathing ailment. Chronic disease can be monitored and treated over a number of years. This test can be performed in a series of intervals over the course of treatment. The doctor will be able to monitor any changes and prescribed the necessary medication if the symptoms get worse.

Spirometers are vitally important tests for anyone who suffers with a lung condition. It is not a difficult test to endure however it is necessary to be prepared prior to taking this test. Patients are asked to loose fitting clothing during the test. They are also advised to refrain from eating heavy meals prior to taking this test.




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