A peak flow meter is a small, portable device that you use to measure airflow from your large airways. A peak flow meter is a helpful tool for most people with asthma. When you blow into your peak flow meter, the number registered is referred to as your peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). A chart will come with your meter to indicate the normal PEFR for someone your age, gender, weight and height.
Your PEFR will typically drop before you experience asthma symptoms, so you’ll know when an asthma flare is coming. By measuring your peak flow on a regular basis, and with the help of your doctor you can set up a specific medication and treatment plan that will help prevent an asthma episode before it occurs.
There are many of peak flow meters available. Your doctor can provide you with information on where to purchase one and how to use it. Your doctor will also help you determine your “personal best” PEFR, this is the reading you will strive for.
There are Three Peak Flow Zones
Many peak flow meters use a three-color zone method to help you understand your peak flow readings. Ask your doctor to write down a customized medication and treatment plan for you based on these three zones:
The Green Zone: Your PEFR number is between 80% and 100% of your personal best. When you are in this zone, you are likely free of any asthma symptoms.
The Yellow Zone: Your PEFR number is between 50% and 80% of your personal best. Your asthma is worsening. You should call your doctor because he may need to increase your asthma medications.
The Red Zone: Your PEFR number is below 50% of your personal best. This reading signals that your asthma is out of control. This may mean an asthma emergency is about to occur. Call your doctor immediately! A bronchodilator medicine is usually needed at this point to help you breathe.
You Should Keep a Peak Flow Diary
Your peak flow meter will come with a diary so you can record your readings on a regular basis. Your doctor can show you how to use the diary. You should record any asthma symptoms you are having and the medicines you are taking. You should also record anything that might be triggering your asthma. Be sure to bring your peak flow diary with you when you visit your doctor. The information you record in the diary will help your doctor determine if a change in your treatment plan is needed.
Peak Flow for Adults
Peak flow monitoring can take the mystery out of asthma management. If you are adult with asthma you may have become accustomed to the way you breathe, not recognizing when an asthma flare is approaching. By using peak flow monitoring you can predict and treat asthma before it turns into a serious episode.
Peak Flow for Children
The peak flow meter is an invaluable tool for any parent of a child with asthma. It will clearly indicate the degree of breathing difficulty your child is having and take the fear out of dealing with asthma.
The peak flow meter is portable and can be sent to school or other activities with your child. Your child’s teacher or school nurse can telephone you or your child’s doctor with a peak flow reading so you know how your child is breathing.
The use of a peak flow meter can also help you make practical decisions about whether or not to let your child participate in physical or strenuous activities. It will help you know when and how much medicine to give your child (based on the instructions by your doctor). Instruction and use of a peak flow meter by your child’s baby sitter or day care provider will also help you “breathe easier,” knowing that you can trust them with decision making about asthma when you’re not around.
Good asthma control is possible with the use of objective measuring with tools like a peak flow meter. Ask your doctor if you should get one today.
Online Resources
The American College of Allergy and Immunology
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