How do you use a peak flow meter?
ANSWER
There are several types, but they work in pretty much the same way: You blow into the mouthpiece as hard and as fast as you can, and the meter gives you a number that tells how well your lungs are working.
You’ll start by figuring out your personal best reading. That’s the one you get when you feel fine and don’t have symptoms. To check your best reading, test yourself with the meter every day for 2-3 weeks. The highest reading of all is your personal best.
Your doctor will use your personal best to make a plan for managing your asthma.
Reviewed by Jennifer Robinson on August 28, 2020
SOURCES:
Mayo Clinic: “Spirometry,” “Peak flow meter.”
Cleveland Clinic: “Peak flow meter.”
American Lung Association: “Measuring your peak flow rate.”
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology: “Peak Flow Meter.”
University of Washington: “New health sensing toll measures lung function over a phone call, from anywhere in the world.”
SOURCES:
Mayo Clinic: “Spirometry,” “Peak flow meter.”
Cleveland Clinic: “Peak flow meter.”
American Lung Association: “Measuring your peak flow rate.”
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology: “Peak Flow Meter.”
University of Washington: “New health sensing toll measures lung function over a phone call, from anywhere in the world.”
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on to make decisions about your health. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the WebMD Site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
This tool does not provide medical advice. See additional information.