ASTHMA IN SCHOOLS

Peak Flow Meter What is a peak flow meter? A peak flow meter is a device used to measure how well a person's asthma is under control. The device measures air flowing out of the lungs, called peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), as a person with asthma forcefully blows into the device. A peak flow meter, when used properly, can reveal narrowing of the airways well in advance of an asthma attack. Used mainly by persons with moderate to severe and persistent asthma, natural remedies for asthma asthma in schools peak flow meters can help determine: ú when to seek emergency medical care. ú the effectiveness of a person's asthma management and treatment plan. ú when to stop or add medication, as directed by your physician. ú what triggers the asthma attack (such as exercise-induced asthma). What are peak flow zones? Peak flow zones are based on the traffic light concept: red means danger, yellow means caution, and green means safe. Based on your personal best peak flow measurement (the optimal level of asthma in schools asthma in schools your lung function), your three peak flow zones include: ú Green: 80 to 100 percent of your personal best peak flow measurement; asthma is under control. ú Yellow: 50 to 79 percent of your personal best peak flow measurement; asthma is getting worse; you may need to use quick-relief medications or other medication, as directed by your physician. ú Red: below 50 percent of your personal best peak flow measurement; medical alert, take quick-relief medication and seek medical help immediately. The goal of the herbs symptoms asthma in schools peak flow zones is to help you recognize when the asthma may start to become uncontrolled. The goal is to stay within the 80 percent value of your personal best peak flow measurement. How is a personal best peak flow measured? Each person's peak flow zones are based on his/her personal best peak flow number. To establish your personal best peak flow meter, take your peak flow measurement each day at the same time (middle of the day) for two to three weeks, when exercise induced asthma treatment asthma in schools your asthma