Breathing Exercise Machines

Breathing exercise machines help to increase lung volume and minimize mucus and fluid in the lungs. Normally a person spontaneously and unconsciously takes several deep breaths per hour. However, for individuals with neuromuscular disorders, disease and injuries from trauma, and after surgery, deep breathing can be painful. By not breathing deep, the lungs tend to accumulate fluid, causing breathing problems. Using a breathing exercise machine encourages deep breathing, the cough reflex and helps in clearing mucus from the airway.

The Breather

The Breather is a device used by adults and children, four and older, to strengthen their respiratory muscles and increase lung volume. The Breather improves the degenerative affects of neuromuscular disease on the respiratory system. It strengthens the muscles associated with breathing and can improve the cough effort. The Breather also assists speech training. This device can be attached to a metered dose inhaler and a handheld nebulizer used in asthma management. In 2010, The Breather, manufactured by AliMed, cost approximately $35.

Volumetric Exerciser

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Using a volumetric exerciser improves the user's inspiratory volume or the amount of air inhaled. This process improves the process of respiration; breathing in oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide. This device assists patients in exercising their lungs, increasing their lung volume, and preventing fluid buildup in the lung tissue. By using the volumetric exerciser and meeting or exceeding the recommended inspiratory volumes, the lungs are able to keep the smaller airways clear of obstruction. In 2010, the Hudson RCI Voldyne 5000 Volumetric Exerciser and the Cardinal Health AirLife Volumetric Spirometer ranged in price from $8.49 to $12.

Acapella

The Acapella vibratory valve assists patients with lung disease to loosen and cough up mucus. The valve attaches to a handheld nebulizer, making secretion clearance more effective. The Acapella uses positive expiratory pressure and airway vibrations to loosen mucus, making it easier to cough up. Individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, cystic fibrosis and other lungs disorders use the Acapella as a breathing improvement device. In 2010, the Acapella Vibratory Valve, manufactured by Smiths Medical, ranged in price from $45 to $55.