AirPhysio Vs Incentive Spirometer – Which One to Choose?

• AirPhysio
• Incentive Spirometer
• Comparison Table
• Differences
• Conclusion

AirPhysio and Spirometer are notable devices in respiratory health, each with a unique approach to improving and monitoring lung function.

AirPhysio is a handheld device designed to enhance lung health using oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) combined with vibrations, facilitating mucus clearance and airway expansion. In contrast, the Spirometer is a diagnostic tool primarily used in medical settings to measure lung capacity, airflow, and other essential respiratory metrics.

This comparison will highlight the distinct advantages and features of both devices, assisting you in determining which best aligns with your needs. Whether aiming to bolster lung function, manage a respiratory condition, or simply monitor your pulmonary health, understanding the differences between AirPhysio and Spirometer is key.

AirPhysio Vs Incentive Spirometer Comparison Table

Product	AirPhysio	Spirometer
Price	$59.99	$60 - 240
Where to Buy	Official site	Check Price
Primary Function	Handheld respiratory device	Diagnostic tool for measuring lung function
Conditions Treated	Asthma (Symptom relief) (COPD) Cystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis Post-Surgery Recovery General Lung Health	Asthma Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Spirometer (Diagnosis & Disease (COPD) Cystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis Restrictive Lung Diseases
Drug-free
Usage	Personal respiratory improvement, mucus clearance	Clinical diagnostic and monitoring of lung function
Assistance	Assists in mucus clearance, lung health	Requires a trained healthcare professional for operation
Compatibility	Compatible with most medications, enhancing their effectiveness, and it can be used in conjunction with various treatments, including inhalers and nebulizers.	Compatible with medications as part of treatment plans and can also be integrated with various respiratory therapies and electronic health record (EHR) systems for comprehensive patient care.
Electricity	No	Requires electricity
Accessibility	Available for individual purchase and use	Typically available within healthcare facilities
Real-time Data	Does not provide real-time data monitoring	Offers real-time data during diagnostic tests
Ease of Use	User-friendly with minimal learning curve	Requires training for proper operation
Mobility	Can be used at home, travel, or on the go	Primarily used within clinical settings
Data Storage	No data storage capability	Often includes data storage for patient records
Calibration	No need for calibration	Requires periodic calibration
Cleaning	Requires regular cleaning and maintenance	Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
Learn more	Read In-depth Review

What is AirPhysio?

AirPhysio is a handheld respiratory device designed to assist individuals in improving lung health, enhancing lung function, and managing respiratory conditions.

It is handy for people with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis.

AirPhysio is non-invasive and can be part of a daily respiratory care routine to help clear mucus, increase lung capacity, and promote better breathing.

How Does AirPhysio Work?

AirPhysio works based on a mechanism called oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP). Here’s how it works:

1. Inhalation: You start by inhaling through the AirPhysio device, creating resistance against your breath.
2. Exhalation: During the exhalation phase, a steel ball within the AirPhysio oscillates or vibrates within its chamber as you blow into the device.
3. Vibration: These vibrations generated by the steel ball create oscillations in the airflow, which helps to break up and loosen mucus that may be trapped in your airways.
4. Mucus Clearance: The combination of resistance and vibrations assists in mobilizing and moving mucus toward the larger airways, making it easier to cough up or clear from your lungs.

How to Use AirPhysio

Using AirPhysio is relatively straightforward, but following the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use is essential. Here’s a general guideline:

1. Prepare the Device: Ensure that your AirPhysio device is clean and in good working condition.
2. Position Yourself: Sit or stand in an upright position.
3. Inhale and Exhale: Take a deep breath and exhale forcefully through the AirPhysio device. You should feel resistance when exhaling.
4. Repeat: Continue this process for several breaths, usually 5-10 minutes per session.
5. Cough or Clear Mucus: After using AirPhysio, you may need to cough to clear the loosened mucus from your airways.
6. Clean the Device: After each use, it’s important to clean the AirPhysio device to maintain hygiene and functionality.

Cleaning AirPhysio

Proper cleaning of AirPhysio is crucial to prevent bacteria buildup and maintain its effectiveness. Follow these steps for cleaning:

1. Disassemble the Device: Take apart the AirPhysio, including the mouthpiece, steel ball, and chamber.
2. Wash with Warm Soapy Water: Wash all parts in warm, soapy water, ensuring you clean all surfaces thoroughly.
3. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the components with clean water and allow them to air dry completely before reassembling.
4. Regular Maintenance: Clean the device after every use. Additionally, performing a more thorough cleaning at least once a week is a good practice, especially if you use it frequently.

What Is an Incentive Spirometer?

A Spirometer is a medical device that measures lung function by assessing various respiratory parameters.

It is commonly employed in clinical settings to diagnose and monitor lung conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and restrictive lung diseases.

Spirometry tests involve measuring lung volumes and airflow, providing valuable information about a person’s respiratory health.

How Does an Incentive Spirometer Work?

A spirometer works on the principle of measuring the volume of air that a person can inhale and exhale and the rate at which they can do so. Here’s how it works:

1. Inhalation: The individual takes a deep breath and then exhales forcefully into a mouthpiece attached to the Spirometer. The mouthpiece is connected to a device that records the airflow and volume.
2. Measurement: As the person exhales, the Spirometer measures several important parameters, including:
   1. Forced Vital Capacity (FVC): The maximum volume of air a person can exhale after a deep inhalation.
   2. Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1): The air volume exhaled during the first second of the FVC maneuver.
   3. Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF): The maximum flow rate during exhalation.
3. Analysis: The data collected during the spirometry test is analyzed to assess lung function, diagnose respiratory conditions, and monitor disease progression or response to treatment.

How to Use a Spirometer?

Trained healthcare professionals typically conduct spirometry in a clinical setting, but portable spirometers are also available for home use under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Here’s a general overview of how to use a spirometer:

1. Preparation: Ensure the Spirometer is clean and calibrated according to manufacturer instructions.
2. Positioning: Sit or stand in an upright position with good posture.
3. Mouthpiece Placement: Place the mouthpiece of the Spirometer in your mouth, creating a tight seal with your lips to prevent air leakage.
4. Inhalation: Inhale as deeply as possible, filling your lungs with air.
5. Exhalation: Exhale forcefully and as quickly as you can into the spirometer mouthpiece. Aim to empty your lungs completely.
6. Repeat: Perform the test at least three times to ensure accurate and consistent results, with a short rest between attempts.
7. Recording: The Spirometer will record and display the results, including FVC, FEV1, and PEF.

Cleaning a Spirometer

Proper cleaning of a spirometer is crucial to prevent cross-contamination between users and maintain accurate results. Here are steps for cleaning a spirometer:

1. Disassemble: Disassemble the Spirometer per the manufacturer’s instructions, separating any removable parts such as mouthpieces or tubing.
2. Wipe Down: Use a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dampened with a suitable disinfectant solution to clean the exterior surfaces of the device, including buttons and screens.
3. Clean Mouthpieces: If disposable mouthpieces are used, discard them after each use. If not, clean and disinfect reusable mouthpieces thoroughly.
4. Tubing and Sensors: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting any internal components or sensors. Some spirometers may require periodic maintenance by a trained technician.
5. Drying: Ensure all components are thoroughly dried before reassembly or storage.
6. Regular Maintenance: Spirometers used in clinical settings should undergo regular maintenance and calibration to ensure accurate measurements.

AirPhysio vs Spirometer: Differences

Compare AirPhysio and a Spirometer in terms of their purpose, functionality, usage, and key features:

Purpose

AirPhysio is primarily designed to improve lung health, promote better breathing, and aid in mucus clearance. It is a device individuals use to support their respiratory health and manage conditions like asthma, COPD, and cystic fibrosis.

A spirometer is a diagnostic tool used in medical settings to measure lung function, including parameters like lung volume, airflow, and capacity. Healthcare professionals primarily use it to diagnose respiratory conditions and monitor lung health.

Functionality

AirPhysio uses oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) and vibrations to help mobilize and clear mucus from the airways. It assists in airway clearance and expansion, making it easier to breathe.

A spirometer measures various lung parameters, including Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1), and Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF). It provides detailed data about lung function and airflow.

Usage

AirPhysio is designed for individual use and can be part of a daily respiratory care routine. Users can incorporate it into their self-management of respiratory conditions.

Spirometers are typically used in clinical settings by trained healthcare professionals to conduct diagnostic tests, assess lung function, and monitor the progress of respiratory diseases.

Benefits

AirPhysio:

• It helps with mucus clearance, making it easier to breathe.
• Portable and can be used at home.
• Non-invasive and suitable for daily use.
• It can provide relief from symptoms in conditions like COPD and cystic fibrosis.

Spirometer:

• Provides detailed and objective measurements of lung function.
• Essential for diagnosing respiratory conditions and tracking disease progression.
• It helps healthcare professionals make treatment decisions.
• Used in research and clinical trials to assess the efficacy of treatments.

Cleaning and Maintenance

AirPhysio requires regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure hygiene and functionality. Components like the mouthpiece and chamber need to be cleaned after each use.

The Spirometer must be cleaned and calibrated regularly to maintain accuracy. The cleaning process includes disinfecting the device and mouthpieces to prevent cross-contamination.

Accessibility

AirPhysio is accessible for individual purchase and use, making it available to a wide range of people seeking respiratory support.

The Spirometer is typically only available in clinical settings, limiting access to healthcare facilities or professionals.

Compatibility

Compatibility with Medications:

AirPhysio is generally compatible with most medications since it primarily focuses on mucus clearance and lung health improvement. It can complement medication-based treatments by helping to clear airways.

Spirometers is compatible with medications in the sense that they can be used alongside medication regimens. Spirometry tests help healthcare professionals assess the effectiveness of medications and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

Compatibility with Other Respiratory Treatments:

AirPhysio is generally compatible with other treatments, including inhalers and nebulizers. Using AirPhysio before using these devices may help improve their effectiveness by ensuring better airflow.

Spirometers is compatible with various respiratory treatments. Spirometry tests are often part of a comprehensive treatment plan and can be used alongside other therapies.

Compatibility with Different Lung Conditions:

AirPhysio is designed to assist individuals with various respiratory conditions, including asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, and post-surgery recovery. It can be tailored to suit specific needs.

Spirometers is used across a wide range of lung conditions for diagnostic and monitoring purposes, providing valuable insights into lung function and airflow.

Cost

AirPhysio is generally more affordable than spirometry tests conducted in a clinical setting. It involves a one-time purchase of the device.

Spirometer costs associated with spirometry tests are typically covered by healthcare providers or insurance but may vary depending on location and the healthcare system.

Conclusion

On the other hand, a Spirometer is a diagnostic instrument primarily utilized by healthcare professionals in clinical settings. It provides comprehensive data about lung function, making it indispensable for diagnosing respiratory ailments and monitoring disease progression.

The choice between these devices depends on your specific needs. If you seek self-administered respiratory care, AirPhysio may be your solution. On the other hand, if you require precise diagnostic measurements and medical oversight, a Spirometer under healthcare professionals’ guidance is the appropriate choice.