Question:
I wanted to know if you need a prescription for purchasing a peak flow
meter? My Dr. says I don't need one since I am on the meds 4 times
daily so even if I was low, I could not take more medicine but I would
like to have an idea of what is triggering this. How much should I
expect to pay?
Answer:
A rather puzzling remark from your doctor regarding your request
to get a peak flow meter. Current asthma guidelines recommend that most
asthmatics who are Moderate or Severe should monitor their peak flows
using a peak flow meter. The reasons include not only adjust of meds
when in yellow or red zone, but assessment of your current condition;
if not in the green maybe you shouldn't go to exercise class today,
or maybe stay out of the cold air, or don't take a plane trip, etc. How much medication are you taking that you couldn't take more if you
had an exacerbation and your peak flow dropped below 50%? I have
taken 24 pf/day of Azmacort at times; I have seen some asthmatics
take over 40 pf of Vanceril. Then the next step is oral prednisone
if inhaled steroids are not sufficient. Of course Ventolin should
also be used. Current asthma guidelines recommend the use of an
Action Plan to increase meds when peak flow drops below 80% of
personal best.
You can buy a peak flow meter from your pharmacy for $20-30; or
mailorder. Some managed care plans pay for it if you get a prescription.
