WASHINGTON (TIP): Researchers have developed a pocket-sized device that plugs into a smartphone and can detect early warning signs of asthma attacks.

The device, Wing, is a sensor that works with a companion app to accurately measure two important lung functions: FEV1 (how much air you can exhale in one second) and Peak Flow (how fast you can exhale).

Using Wing consistently over time can help users visualise lung function, detect environmental and medication triggers that can cause symptoms, and know when to take action before asthma or related attacks occur, according to scientists at US-based Sparo Labs.

Wing plugs in via the headphone jack and draws its power from the smartphone, so there is no charging or batteries necessary, ‘Gizmag’ reported. The accompanying app allows users to both monitor and collect readings, while also being able to share them securely with a physician through its cloud-based, HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) compliant system. Sparo Labs said Wing can help monitor and manage a variety of lung conditions other than asthma, including COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), CF (cyctic fibrosis) chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and pulmonary fibrosis.