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Peak flow is how much air your child breathes out when they're trying hard.
Peak flow is how much air your child breathes out when they're trying hard.Checking peak flow lets you know how well your child's lungs are working. It also helps you know ifyour child's asthma is staying the same, getting better, or getting worse.A peak flow meter is an easy tool you can use to check on your child's lungs. These meters come inmany shapes and sizes, but they all work about the same.Here's how to measure your child's peak flow.First, set the pointer of the peak flow meter to 0 or to the lowest number on the meter.Second, if there is a separate mouthpiece, attach it to the meter.Now, have your child sit up or stand up as straight as possible and take a deep breath.Next, have your child tightly close their lips around the mouthpiece, keeping their tongue away fromthe mouthpiece. Their fingers should be away from the number scale.Now, have your child blow out as hard and as fast as they can.Okay, now note the number on the meter, and write it down. Do the test 2 more times.The highest of these 3 tests is your child's peak flow.Be sure to talk to your child's doctor about peak flow.Measuring peak flow can help you know how well your child's lungs are working so you can helpmanage your child's asthma.And that can help your child feel better and breathe easier.This program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.© The Wellness Network
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