A peak flow meter is a device that can help you
track and manage your asthma.
This device measures how much air you can expel
with every breath.
Follow this checklist to help you monitor your
asthma with a peak flow meter.
Do: Find your personal best peak flow.
When you receive a meter and are feeling healthy,
use it every day for 2 weeks.
The highest reading over those 2 weeks is your
personal best peak flow.
Note this in your asthma diary.
Do: Test your breathing three times in a row when
using your peak flow meter daily.
Record the highest number you get at that day and
time in your asthma diary.
Do: Measure your peak flow at the same time every
day.
Do: Compare your peak flow for each day with your
personal best peak flow to see how well your asthma
is being managed.
Do not: Use a reading if you cough, spit, or block
the mouthpiece at all during the test.
Just repeat the test.
Do not: Record a number that is drastically
different than the other two readings.
Do not: Forget to clean your meter.
It should be cleaned with warm soapy water once a
week.
A peak flow meter can help you monitor your asthma
and control your symptoms.
If you have questions about how to use your peak
flow meter, talk to your healthcare provider.