Peak flow meters measure how quickly you can blow air from your lungs. It provides you with a reading called the peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) in litres per minute (L/min). PEFR can help you track your lung function over time (by how much air you can blow out).
How to use your peak flow meter
1. Make sure the peak flow meter indicator is set to zero “0”.
2. Sit or stand while keeping your back straight.
3. Inhale deeply, put your lips around the mouthpiece of the peak flow meter
4. Blow as hard and as fast as you possibly can into the peak flow meter
5. Record the score you see on the indicator of the peak flow meter.
6. Repeat steps 3 to 5 two more times ensuring that you maintain a straight back.
7. Record your scores each time. The best score of the three is closest to your actual score. Record this in your Ayuda Health e-diary.
It is generally recommended to take your peak expiratory flow rate every day. Every time you take your peak expiratory flow rate, take your reading three times. Given your readings over time, check in with your asthma plan and your healthcare practitioner to see if any adjustments to medication and/or monitoring need to be made.
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