A spirometer is a expedient that is used for measuring the volume of air inhaled and exhaled by the lungs. It measures a differential pressure for the determination of respiration flow rates. The spirometer records the whole of air and the rate of air that is breathed in and out over a exact period of time.
It is used in hospitals and diagnostic centers for basic pulmonary function tests. Thus it helps in early determination of health conditions of patient's lungs, such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. It is also used for finding the cause for shortness of breath..so as you can see, an very importance piece of healing equipment!
History
- The earliest exertion to portion the lung volumes was made in the year 129-200 Ad.
- In 1813, Kentish E used a easy "Plumometer" to study the succeed of diseases on pulmonary lung volume.
- In 1831, Thrackrah C.T designed the "Plumometer" similar to the former model, however there was no revising in the respiratory volume.
- In 1846, water Hydrometer was developed by John Hutchinson. This hydrometer had a calibrated bell, inverted in water, which was used to capture the volume of air exhaled by person. He also established the direct connection in the middle of vital capacity and height, inversely proportional with age.
- In 1854, Wintrich developed a spirometer, which was easier to use.
- In 1902, Wright B.M and Mc Kerrow C.B introduced the peak flow spirometer.
- In 1974, improvements were made in the peak flow spirometer that was lighter version of the former model.
There are many distinct types of spirometer devices with many distinct uses.
- Pneumotachometer: This type of spirometer measures the flow rate of gases by detecting pressure differences.
- Whole body plethysmograph: The someone is enclosed in a accomplished space, during the measurement. This measures the components of lung volumes accurately.
- Fully electronic spirometer: It computes the airflow rates in a channel. Accuracy is maintained by eliminating the momentum and resistance errors connected with exciting parts such as windmills.
- Incentive spirometer: It helps in improving the functioning of the lungs.
- Peak flow spirometer: This measures the exhaling potential of the patient.
The tests done on lungs through the spirometer is known as spirometery. The spirometer is extensively used by doctors to portion the respiratory functioning during rest and activity.
I do hope this overview and brief history has been of some interest, for more information, please do not hesitate to palpate me.
A Brief History of the Spirometer
