How can i improve my peak flow




















By measuring how fast you're able to breathe out, your peak flow score can indicate whether your airways are narrowed. This could be a sign that you have asthma , although other tests such as spirometry will often be needed to confirm the diagnosis. If you've already been diagnosed with asthma, measuring your peak flow regularly can be a useful way of monitoring your condition. Your score can show whether or not your condition is getting worse.

It can also check if your medication is working, and indicate whether you're having an asthma attack. Measuring your peak flow before and after exposure to a possible asthma trigger, such as something you're allergic to or a substance you're exposed to at work, may also show if anything in particular causes your symptoms. The first time your peak flow is measured, you'll be taught how to do it by a doctor or nurse.

The PFM can also identify the reading at which you need to call your healthcare provider or go to the emergency room. Your healthcare provider may not advise you use a PFM unless your asthma is moderate or severe and you are managing it with medicine. PFM can also be used to assess other lung problems, such as:.

This is a chronic lung condition that affects the smallest air sacks in the lungs alveoli. Chronic bronchitis. This is long-term inflammation of the bronchi. It creates excess mucous and a chronic cough. Use of a different type or brand of peak flow meter, as measurements may vary among brands and types of meters. Your healthcare provider will explain the procedure to you. Ask him or her any questions you have.

You may be asked to sign a consent form that gives permission to do the procedure. Read the form carefully. Ask questions if anything is not clear. Tell your healthcare provider if you take any medicines. This includes prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Before starting daily peak flow meter measuring, your healthcare provider may have you follow a detailed schedule over 2 to 3 weeks. This value will be used as a baseline for your daily measurements. Peak flow measurement is done 1 or more times daily at the same time of day, or whenever you are having early signs of an asthma attack.

Or you should use it when directed by your healthcare provider. Use the peak flow meter PFM before taking asthma medicine. Your healthcare provider may advise other times when using a PFM is useful. Before each use, make sure the sliding pointer on the peak flow meter is reset to the 0 mark. Take a deep breath and put the mouthpiece in your mouth.

Seal your lips and teeth tightly around the mouthpiece. Prevention is the best medicine, and working to keep your lungs healthy is much more efficient than trying to repair them after something goes wrong.

To keep your lungs healthy, do the following:. Read this article in Spanish. Learn about six breathing exercises to help you control your asthma so you can breathe easier. Learn how to practice pursed lip breathing and understand its benefits for relaxation and easing health conditions such as COPD. Learn the steps of box breathing and discover how it can help relieve anxiety and stress.

Shortness of breath is an uncomfortable condition that can make it hard to carry out daily tasks. Chronic bronchitis is a form of COPD.

It may be caused by smoking and other exposure to chemicals. We explain the risks, diagnosis, treatment, and…. You knew it was coming. Smoking damages the lungs, causing all sorts of problems, from lung cancer to respiratory disease. And it definitely affects your lung capacity. Take a deep breath. No, really, it is that simple. There are a number of breathing exercises you can do that help keep your lungs healthy. One involves standing up with your back arched, breathing in and holding your breath for 10 seconds before exhaling — which can easily be done while watching the telly.

A study released this year found that higher vitamin D levels were associated with better lung function. In the summer, depending on where you live, most people can get enough vitamin D from the sunshine.



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