Sifting through the endless list of remote healthcare devices and services is a daunting task, particularly when your selection has direct medical repercussions. One Google search feeds you pages upon pages of options – how do you know which one to choose? That’s where we can help! Below, we’ve compiled a brief list of our favorite spirometers, their features, and other pertinent information. Check out our other posts on patient devices here!
About Spirometry
A spirometry test is a common medical practice that assesses a patient’s pulmonary function. The test typically measures the amount of air inhaled, along with the speed at which air is exhaled. Data extracted from spirometry tests can be used to profile breathing patterns and detect and diagnose conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Continued spirometry examinations can also monitor the development and improvement of existing lung conditions.
The specific lung function tests related to spirometry frequently include forced expiratory volume (FEV) and forced vital capacity (FVC). The former measures the amount of air exhaled during a period of forced breathing. Low FEV results are often associated with obstructive lung diseases. Forced vital capacity (FVC) measures the total amount of air exhaled in an FEV examination.
Digital vs. Incentive Spirometry:
Spirometry devices – or spirometers – can take several forms and functions. Generally, there are two types of spirometers: digital and incentive. Though similar in purpose, the types differ widely in design, features, and operation. Incentive spirometers are the far simpler of the two. These devices are aimed at directly improving a patient’s breathing capacity. Using a piston-chamber system, incentive spirometers help sustain strong breathing.
In terms of remote healthcare, digital spirometers are more applicable. Pocket-sized and designed with the user experience in mind, digital spirometers identity and track the progression of pulmonary conditions. Using a channel turbine, these devices produce information regarding a patient’s breathing, including both speed and strength, that can be analyzed by a physician. Digital spirometers often have compatible iOS and Android applications, automatic bluetooth connection, and transferable medical reports.
Impilo’s Top Picks
Browse our favorite spirometers pulled directly from our catalog, where you can explore pricing options and key features of the lineup.
$$ | Bluetooth + app
Parameters: Peak Flow (PEF) and FEV1
Features: ready-to-use out of the box, free iOS and Android app, results displayed in real-time
The MIR Smart One Spirometer is a great option for patients looking for at-home peak flow (PEF) and FEV1 measurements. The device is suitable for patients aged 5-93 years. The spirometer is covered by Medicare. The bluetooth connectivity makes data recording and transferring simple.
SpiroLink® Smart Spirometer
$$ | Bluetooth + app
Parameters: Peak Flow (PEF), FEV1
Features: lightweight, compact, easy to use on-the-go
The SpiroLink® Smart Spirometer allows patients to easily monitor their pulmonary functionality. Using a pressure sensor, the device is less susceptible to damage than other comparable devices. An optional Filter Mouthpiece is also available, which makes cleaning more easy.
$$$ | Bluetooth or included USB cable
Parameters: FVC, FEV1, PEF
Features: chart and trend displays, real-time clock, rechargeable via USB
The Facelake FSP20 Spirometer is perhaps the most user-friendly device on the list. This is largely because of its simplicity. Data reports can be viewed directly on the display. Lights signal battery life and other notifications. Reports can be managed on the associated PC software. A single test takes up to 6 seconds. For more information, check out the interactive model!
$ | USB and LCD Display
Parameters: PEF, FEV1
Features: removable mouthpiece for easy cleanup, simple set-up, pocket-sized
A more affordable option, the PF 100 Digital Peak Flow Meter allows for up to 240 measurements. The USB port makes data monitoring and transferring easy. The simple display and results indicator makes the data understandable. The device is suitable for both children and adults.