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Learning More About The Spirometer

By Coleen Cote


An association with family or a friend with lung problems might have introduced you to the spirometer. This apparatus is utilized in measuring breathing capacity. It assists in discovering if there is a weakening or improvement of an individual's breathing. This is used across the board for anyone who is concerned with the healthiness of their lungs and not just people with serious problems.

This equipment has taken many years to develop a strong, reliable apparatus for the use of working through breathing problems. It does get confused with a breathalyzer due to the similarities in the concept. The difference is that one that is used medically measures inhaling and exhaling. This is to help people, and a breathalyzer is merely a means to prove drunkenness. Drinking is a culprit in causing breathing problems for people.

The instrument is white in color but you will find this is the color of choice for many things in the medical field. The apparatus is also available in a wireless version. When being tested it has to happen a few times so that there might be an exact reading. The information can be transferred to a computer where it is plotted onto a chart which is then used by a doctor to make deductions on the health of the patient.

This equipment is becoming more available in pharmacies for people to own at home. Doing the test yourself is a great opportunity to keep track of your own lung health and capacity. It saves the effort of making a trip to the doctor to find out something you could do yourself.

As an owner of this piece of equipment you have to take extra precautions to prevent contamination. This means cleaning the equipment and keeping it well maintained. Sterilizing the mouth piece between patients or using disposable mouth pieces.

The studying of lungs with this equipment is called spirometry. It is believed to also assist in identifying people who might have premature deaths. When one is applying for insurance many companies will include that a part of the testing procedure. Naturally one should expect it as oxygen is the major component of life.

These tests need to be regularly done if a person is a smoker or has serious lung abnormalities. It will help measure dramatic changes in the lungs. It also should be done before taking medication for the lungs. Too much or too little of the wrong or right medication can have an adverse effect on the patient.

A spirometer is used by medics worldwide in the field and has a large impact on sufferers of lung problems. The importance of air and its role in the functioning of the body was not fully realized in the early days of development. Breathing is one corner stone of living a healthy life. Healthy lungs should not be under estimated. It is important to aim to keep lungs healthy and is easily achieved through exercise and not smoking. It's an opportunity for the body to be superior.




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