Asthmatics are the ones who greatly benefit from peak flow meters because these devices are needed to effectively and accurately adjust the asthma medications and it basically plays a very important part in asthma management plans.
Children also benefit from peak flow meters by having the sickness easier to control and manage. People who are sick with emphysema and bronchitis can also benefit from the device.
However, not all doctors think that peak flow meters are all that great. They don't usually use this device on people who have mild asthma and do not really take any daily medication. This equipment are usually used for children and adults who have severe or moderate asthma conditions.
Measuring the peak flow rate regularly and accurately can greatly help asthmatics and their doctors in monitoring and handling asthma. The measurements taken from the device readings can be used as a basis for prescribing medications. It can also guide doctors in adjusting the dosage of the medication. You see, asthma is a medical condition that is rarely constant that's why a lot of close monitoring is needed in order to control it right away.
The peak flow reading measurements may fluctuate every now and then and that's why doctors and patients must take note of the device readings carefully so that each significant change or fluctuation in the readings can be documented.
Before using the device, make sure that the sliding arrow or marker on the device meter is pointing to zero. After checking the number scale, stand up straight and then take a deep (as deep as you can) breath. Position the mouthpiece of the device in your mouth and close your lips around the mouthpiece of the peak flow meter.
After doing so, exhale or blow your breath as fast and as hard as you can into the mouthpiece, trying hard to blow all the air out from your lungs. The air will make the marker move from zero and you should take note of the number carefully.
The process must be repeated three times and the highest peak flow meter reading is the one that should be considered to be the official reading.
It is not necessary to get the average of the three readings. You may take peak flow readings every day, and it is most advisable to take it at the same time each day for more accurate results.