Peak Flow Meter

A good way to know that an asthma flare-up is starting is by using a peak flow meter. A peak flow meter tells you how open your airways are. it also warns you when a flare-up of your asthma is on the way.
Use a peak flow meter daily at the same time each day.  Using a peak flow meter and keeping a daily record may help warn you of an asthma flare-up before you feel tightness in your chest or wheezing.

Using a Peak Flow Meter

1. You will need paper, a pencil, and your record sheet.
2. Move the marker to the lowest number of the scale on the peak flow meter. Stand up straight. Take as deep a breath as you can and hold it.
3. Put the mouthpiece in your mouth, and close your lips tightly around it. Blow into the meter one time as hard and fast as you can. Take the meter out of your mouth.
4. Look at the marker. Where is it now? Write down the number that the marker points to.
5. Repeat steps 2, 3, and 4 two more times. Move the marker back to the lowest number on the scale each time.
6. Look at the three numbers you wrote down. Write the highest number on your record sheet. Use that number to find out what zone you are in. Follow your action plan for that zone.