Peak Flow Meters

Peak Flow Meters for Monitoring Lung Function

The peak flow meter is a medical device that measures the maximum respiratory flow (peak flow) in litres of air per minute. The peak flow readings help healthcare providers assess a patient's lung function and can contribute to treatment plans, e.g. an asthma action plan. Such a measuring device is used by patients with chronic respiratory and lung diseases in the home environment. If used regularly changes in lung function can be detected at an early stage. This allows a quick response and either a change in medication or a visit to a doctor. A peak flow diary helps to keep an eye on the peak flow values and to draw precise conclusions.

Find the right peak flow meter 

We stock various peak flow meters from well-known manufacturers, such as Vitalograph, for effective asthma management. Most peak flow devices have a measuring range between 50 - 800 litres per minute and can thus be used for both adults and children to help manage their chronic condition. 

The asmaPLAN+ Peak Flow Meter from Vitalograph is equipped with an individually adjustable traffic light system. With this meter, the different ranges are pre-set by the doctor so that the asthma patient has an individual assessment of their values at home and can act accordingly. 

The Universal Peak Flow Meter also has an adjustable traffic light system. Safety mouthpieces for this meter can be purchased separately. Using a safety mouthpiece means the device can be used for peak flow measurement in several patients without the risk of infection transmission. The multi-patient use makes it ideal for medical practices, hospitals and rehabilitation facilities. 

What do the different colours of the traffic light system mean?

Green means good control (80 to 100 % of personal best reading) and your condition is considered stable. Yellow means caution (50 % to 80 % of personal best reading). Red means danger (less than 50 % of personal best reading) and your condition is considered unstable.

How regularly must a measurement be taken?

It is ideal to check every day; in the morning after getting up, at noon, and in the evening. In case of symptoms like respiratory distress, it is imperative that measurements be taken directly.

Electronic Lung Monitors 

In addition to meters for determining peak flow values, you will also find electronic lung monitors in this category, such as the Electronic COPD Screener and the Lung Age Monitor for calculating FEV1 and lung age. While the COPD screener is used for early detection of pre-symptomatic COPD, the lung age monitor is used in the context of smoking cessation. The device determines the FEV1 and lung age and thus emphatically conveys the effects of smoking on life expectancy.