It seems to me that fewer physicians and health care providers know that self-monitoring for prevention of asthma is available and worthwhile patient instruction. Which organizations in 2011 are promoting peak flow meter use for asthma management?
Years ago, thanks to a pharmaceutical company's partnership with Jackie Joiner-Kersee, a champion athlete, I started using a peak flow meter to manage my asthma along with inhaler medications. As an older asthmatic with less physical activity, I'm now on a cortisone inhaler with a rescue inhaler being used less and less.
http://asthma.about.com/od/asthmaresources/ig/Asthma-Accomplishments/Famous-People-With-Asthma--Jackie-Joyner-Kersee.htm
It seems to me that there are fewer physicians and health care providers familiar with the use of peak flow meters for people with asthma.
If health care providers encouraged use of peak flow meters as a daily monitoring health aid, I think most of us asthmatics could stay healthier.
When I get a respiratory infection, I seem to deny that I am getting worse. My peak flow meter tells me the real story. Usually I can puff 350 liters/minute. If the rate goes below 300 liters/minute, I know it's time to call my doctor.
Some doctors have free peak flow meters provided by pharmaceutical sales representatives. Most drug stores have a variety of peak flow meters. Preventative health care costs less and saves lives!