Do You Know Your Peak Flow?
If you have asthma, you may be familiar with a peak-flow meter. It’s a small device that measures how fast the air you breathe moves out of your lungs when you exhale. When the airflow from your lungs is slower, it can be a sign of asthma problems. A peak-flow meter can help alert you to problems hours or even days before you start to have actual symptoms.
How to Use It
Peak-flow readings must be accurate
to be useful. That’s why it’s important
to use your peak-flow meter correctly:
- Make sure the meter indicator is at the bottom of the scale.
- Stand up and breathe in as much air as you can.
- Place your lips tightly around the mouthpiece with your tongue outside the hole.
- With one breath, blow out as hard and fast as you can.
Finding Your Best Reading
Your doctor can help you find your
best reading. This must be done when
your asthma is under control, and it
should be recorded over a few weeks.
You’ll compare all future readings
against the best reading.
Ask your doctor when to take readings. Be sure to write them down and review them with your doctor at every office visit. Know what medicines to take when you get a reading within a certain range.
Learn How to Breathe Easy Online
We have an online section
aimed at helping you better
manage your asthma. You’ll find
articles on controlling triggers,
using medication, and more. Visit
www.paramounthealthcare.com.
Click on “Better Health for Life,”
“Outcome Improvement,” and
“Asthma Management.”