Using a Peak Flow Meter

What’s a peak flow meter?

A peak flow meter can be used to help determine just how well your child’s asthma is being controlled. It’s a small handheld device that measures your child's peak expiratory flow rate (peak flow), which indicates how open his or her airways are. A peak flow meter is like a “thermometer” for asthma.

Your child's doctor can tell you if a peak flow meter is right for your child and, if needed, will help you obtain one. Generally, however, children younger than 4 years cannot perform peak flow rate testing.

How is a peak flow meter used?

The peak flow (measured in liters per second) is the fastest rate that your child can blow air out of his or her lungs. Checking peak flow may help identify changes in your child's airways before he or she has any noticeable asthma symptoms.

By keeping track of your child's peak flow, you can often learn when an asthma attack may be coming. Then you can take steps to help control it before it has a chance to fully develop, allowing your child to get the treatment he or she needs more quickly.

Next | Setting Up a Daily Routine >>