What Is a Peak Flow Meter?

A device known as a peak flow meter has been used for more than fifty years by the medical community. A valuable tool in the fight against asthma and other breathing related problems, the peak flow meter has evolved into a portable and affordable diagnostic and monitoring tool.

History

The first peak flow meter was invented in the mid-1950s by Dr. Martin Wright. It has undergone many modifications and improvements since that time, but its function remains primarily the same.

Function

A peak flow meter is used to monitor a persons ability to exhale air. This allows the airflow through the bronchi to be measured.

Features

Newer peak flow meters are quite small and very affordable. This allows them to be carried by the patient and used in almost any location.

Limitations

Peak flow meters are not a good diagnostic tool for asthma, but they are used to monitor asthma patients. Peak flow meters should not be used by children younger than 12.

Measurement

Three different scales used to measure peak flow: the Wright scale, the European Scale, and the A.T.S. scale. Normally these have three zones: red, yellow and green.