How to Determine Peak Flow Meter Ranges in Asthma

The peak flow meter is a small plastic device used by asthmatics and sufferers of pulmonary conditions to measure breathing regularity. When used daily, a peak flow meter can chart a patient's breathing to ensure that their medications are working effectively. The meter requires the user to inhale and breathe directly into the device. Once the user does this, a numbered reading is given (much like a thermometer). According to the American Lung Association, normal ranges will vary based upon variable factors with each user (such as age, gender and height). The peak flow meter chart was devised to help users understand general guidelines for a normal peak flow meter reading. Determining peak flow meter ranges is a simple process that does not require specialized medical training. A peak flow meter and chart are provided upon request by your physician or pulmonary specialist.

Things You'll Need

• Peak flow meter chart
• Peak flow meter
• Consultation with physician

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Instructions

• 1

  With your peak flow meter in hand and the mouthpiece facing toward you, take a deep breath. Exhale directly into the mouthpiece of the meter as rapidly as you are able. After exhaling, meter will register a numbered reading on the top of the meter. Record the number of your reading in order to compare it to the peak flow meter chart.

• 2

  Consult your peak flow meter chart (see "references" below).

• 3

  Use the gender-specific chart. Female ranges will be located on the left, while male ranges are located on the right side.

• 4

  Locate the age closest to your own in the vertical column on the left, under the heading "AGE." Peak flow meter ranges are determined by five-year intervals; if you are 43, for example, you will round up to the closest age group on the chart, which is 45.

• 5

  Locate your height at the top of the chart. Height is determined by intervals of five inches; find the height which is the closest to your own. If you are 5' 2", for example, you will consult the column under the number 60 (for 60", since you are 62" and 62 is closer to 60 than 65).

• 6

  Move your finger down the length of the height column to find where the column intersects with your age in the column on the left. For example, if you are tracking age 45 and height 60", then the peak flow meter range will be 397 for a female and 498 for a male.

• 7

  Talk with your physician about what range is appropriate for your specific condition, as the chart is only a general guideline. Patients with asthma, emphysema, and other pulmonary conditions may have a lower peak flow range as a result of diminished lung capacity. Your doctor will be able to help you determine your personal best peak flow range.