Introduction
The peak flow meter is a small, compact device used to measure the functional capacity of the lungs. The ability of the lungs to eliminate carbon dioxide is assessed using the peak flow meter. It is useful for both adults and children. Even children under five years old can easily use the peak flow meter. The small changes in the airways are reflected in the readings of the peak flow meter.
What Are the Uses of Peak Flow Meter?
Peak flow meters are used to assess various respiratory diseases. They are as follows;
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It is used to track the severity of asthma and keep it under control with medications.
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After the treatment, the working efficiency of the lungs can be analyzed using a peak flow meter.
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It is used to recognize the signs of respiratory diseases at an earlier stage, even before the symptoms appear.
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It helps the doctor to decide the mode of treatment for asthma flares.
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Depending upon the results, the patient decides whether to take up normal treatment or emergency treatment.
How to Use a Peak Flow Meter?
The peak flow meter has a mouthpiece on one side. It has a reading to measure the force of expired air. The scale denotes air in liters per minute.
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The marker must be at the bottom of the scale. If not, move it to the bottom of the reading.
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Attach the mouthpiece to the peak flow meter.
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Depending on your comfort, stand up or sit straight. Do not bend your back, as it interferes with forceful breathing.
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Inhale a deep breath to fill the lungs with oxygen.
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Place the mouth at one end of the mouthpiece. Both lips must be sealed over the mouthpiece to avoid air leakage.
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Try to blow out the entire air in a single breath. Exhalation of air should be fast and forceful.
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The marker moves to indicate the air pressure. Note the final reading. This reading is called peak flow rate.
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Repeat the above steps. Note down the reading three times. The highest marking out of the three times should be reported.
What Are the Instructions to Follow With Peak Flow Meter?
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Though the peak flow meter can be bought without a prescription, the type of peak flow meter must be chosen on the advice of the doctor.
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Clean the peak flow meter after every use. Store it in a clean and dry place.
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Handle the peak flow meter carefully for an accurate reading.
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Charge the peak flow meter whenever necessary.
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Practice exhaling forcefully many times before using the peak flow meter to get an accurate reading. Use it in front of the physician to check whether you are using it correctly.
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Wash the peak flow meter with warm water and mild soap once a week to avoid contamination.
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Dust particles trigger asthma patients. So keep the mouthpiece free from dust.
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The peak flow rate must be recorded for two to three weeks. Provide the measurement to the medical professional at the end of the third week. The highest reading obtained in these three weeks is known as personal best.
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This personal best is used to manage the asthma treatment plan.
When Should the Peak Flow Meter Be Used?
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Use the peak flow meter when the symptoms of asthma become severe.
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If the asthma is not under control, then the peak flow rate must be recorded more than once a day.
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Consult the medical professional about the frequency and duration of using the peak flow meter.
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Few patients experience asthmatic attacks during sleep. The peak flow rate must be noted in such conditions.
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If there are any symptoms during the day, like gasping for breath, the peak flow rate is recorded.
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The peak flow rate should be noted even in respiratory diseases like cold, cough, or flu because these respiratory conditions influence breathing.
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The peak flow rate must be noted before the use of medication. It is also used 20 to 30 minutes after medication.
What Are the Color Codes of Peak Flow Zone?
Based on the peak flow rate and symptoms, the color codes are classified as green, yellow, and red.
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Green Zone: The percentage of personal best is above 80 % of the peak flow rate. This shows that there is no asthma. The person is normal because there are no signs and symptoms of asthma. But medications can be taken as preventive measures without fail. The dosage of the medication is reduced if the person is in the green zone for a couple of months.
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Yellow Zone: The range of peak flow rate is between 50 % and 80 %. It shows the poor management of asthma. The initial signs and symptoms of asthma are observed in the yellow zone. There may be signs of wheezing and coughing. In extreme cases, the patient experiences tightness in the chest area. Even before these symptoms appear, the peak flow meter shows decreased readings. The dosage of the drug must be improved. The doctor might change the medication if the symptoms did not subside.
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Red Zone: It is the most dangerous zone compared to other zones. If the personal best rate is less than 50 %, the patient must be admitted to the emergency room. The patient has a severe cough and gasps for breath during inspiration. In case of wheezing, use bronchodilators because the bronchodilators can open the airways and help to breathe. The medical professional will prescribe a Corticosteroid to prevent severe asthmatic attacks.
Conclusion
Values obtained from peak flow meters and symptoms of asthma are used to determine the treatment plan. The healthcare professional gives instructions depending on the zone (yellow or red). Discuss the asthma action plan with the doctor and understand it completely. In case of any doubts, ask for an explanation from the medical professional. Record the information obtained from the peak flow meter in the asthmatic diary. Take the diary and peak flow meter to the physician on every follow-up. It helps the physician to analyze whether the patient is using the peak flow meter properly.
