How to Measure Your Peak Flow Correctly: Step-by-Step Guide
A practical guide to using a peak flow meter
Regular peak flow measurements can help people with asthma and their healthcare professionals monitor changes in breathing and airway function over time. Measuring your peak flow consistently and using the correct technique can make your results more useful when assessing asthma control.
In this video, a healthcare professional demonstrates how to use a peak flow meter correctly, from preparing the device and taking a deep breath to performing the measurement and recording your highest result.
In this video, you’ll learn:
- How often you may need to measure your peak flow
- Why measuring your peak flow at around the same time each day can be helpful
- How to correctly prepare and reset your peak flow meter
- How to breathe in and blow out correctly during the measurement
- Why you should perform three attempts for each measurement
- How to identify and record your highest result
Watch the video below for a step-by-step demonstration of how to measure your peak flow correctly.
What is peak flow?
Peak expiratory flow (PEF), commonly known as peak flow, is a measurement of how quickly you can blow air out of your lungs. A peak flow meter is a small handheld device that measures this airflow.
For people with asthma, regular measurements may help identify changes in breathing and provide useful information about asthma control.
How should you measure your peak flow?
For your measurements to be useful, it is important to use the same technique each time. You will generally need to:
- Reset the peak flow meter.
- Take a deep breath in.
- Place the mouthpiece correctly in your mouth.
- Blow out as hard and as fast as you can.
- Record the result.
- Repeat the measurement two more times.
- Record your highest result.
Your healthcare professional may give you specific instructions about when and how often to measure your peak flow.
Why take three measurements?
Peak flow can vary between attempts. Taking three measurements helps identify your best result for that session.
For monitoring purposes, try to measure your peak flow under similar conditions each time, including at approximately the same time of day if this has been recommended by your healthcare professional.
Keeping track of your results
Regular and consistent measurements can help you and your healthcare professional monitor changes in your breathing over time. Keeping a record of your results may also help identify patterns or changes in your asthma control.
Follow the peak flow monitoring plan provided by your healthcare professional and discuss any significant or persistent changes in your readings with them.
Please note: This video is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.
