What is a peak flow meter?

Peak flow meters are important instruments in the management of asthma. Peak flow meters measure the amount of air you can blow out of your lungs. Because you may not always feel your asthma symptoms, obtaining daily peak flow measurements can help you determine how well your lungs are functioning. Typically you should obtain measurements twice daily; once in the morning when you first awaken and once in the evening. Based on those measurements you will know whether you need to take your quick relief medications in addition to your long term control medications.

Daily peak flow measurements are compared to your best measurements when you are well and do not have any asthma symptoms. This is known as your personal best and can be established after about two weeks of daily recordings.

 

  
 
Peak Flow Meter: The Traffic Signal For Your Lungs

 
  If your peak flow is 50% or less of your personal best. STOP and seek medical attention should be sought immediately.  
  If your peak flow is 50%-79% of your personal best. Use CAUTION and begin taking your quick relief medications and contact your physician.  
  If your peak flow is 80%-100% of your personal best. CONTINUE taking your asthma control medications as prescribed.  
 

How to perform a peak flow


 
 
  1. Inhale as deeply as you can
  2. Exhale as forceful and as fast as you can
  3. Avoid coughing while exhaling
  4. Repeat once for consistency

 

  


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Note: All information on Not One More Life is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnosis and treatment consult your physician.