Confused regarding peak flow measurements for asthma.

[digg]

Hello,

Which peak flow measurement would the Doctor or Nurse use to confirm a diagnosis, is it the highest reading (p.m) over a period of time or the lowest reading (a.m).

I always thought it was the one that you puffed out on.

Hope the community can help.

Thanks

[Chip_y2kuk]

It's the change... in none asthmatics they don't change too much (no constriction or inflammation) in asthmatics they can change quite drastically over the space of a day... in everyone (asthmatics and none asthmatics) they are lowest of a morning and night

[digg in reply to Chip_y2kuk]

Chip,

just looked at my peak readings for the past 3 weeks and the morning graph looks like a roller coaster ride.

I have so much to learn.

Thanks again.

cheers

[Chip_y2kuk in reply to digg]

you learn your pattern... the cold weather has been a trigger for me since I was a baby (but I can't have it too hot either) so my peak flow was great yesterday and had recovered (after being out in the cold for a few days, work and such) (I normally blow between 570 and 590) However a few days ago I was blowing 530- 540 (not good for me but not out of the green zone)...

one thing to look out for is dust mite allergies they love bedding and can cause havoc with breathing

[digg in reply to Chip_y2kuk]

Chip,

Hope you are feeling better and wrapped up, 570/590 is pretty impressive. my bedroom is full of boxes and stuff and you are right i must buy a decent hoover and get rid of all dust mites.

I am VERY careful now where i tread in the bedroom and try not create much air movement, do you know of cleaner that will suck up all the dust rather then spray every where! i guess it would be advisable to cover my mouth and nose when i start hoovering.

First job on Saturday buy a hoover..second job clean the bedroom.

Digg.

[Chip_y2kuk in reply to digg]

Hoover's with a hepa filter are supposed to be the best... just make sure it's a washable filter and keep it clean (for the Hoover and yours sake)

[Chip_y2kuk in reply to digg]

As for the 570/590 peak flow you should see the stuff I take to keep it like that

[Chip_y2kuk]

Also hot wash bedding and get mattress and pilow covers... there not expensive and worth the expense if you do have a dust allergy also down the back of radiators often gets forgotten when it comes to dust