A peak flow meter is a portable handheld device used to measure
how well a person can blow air out of the lungs. To use it, a
person blows into it and then checks the reading. Many people with
asthma use it at home to determine how well their asthma is
controlled. Asthma causes a person's airways to become narrow,
making it hard for him or her to breathe. This device can tell if
the airways are getting narrow even before a person has any
symptoms. Peak flow measurements can help someone with asthma work
together with a doctor to identify approaching asthma flare-ups, to
develop a treatment plan, and to decide when to seek medical
care.
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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