Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Free Booklet Available

A free illustrated booklet describing the use of peak flow meters is available to parents of children with asthma from the American Lung Associaton of Arkansas, the Christmas Seal People.

The booklet, `Facts About Peak Flow Meters,' illustrates the simple device a child blows into to measure airflow from their lungs, giving an early warning sign if a breathing problem is developing.

"The American Lung Association urges parents and their child with moderate to severe asthma to use a peak flow meter daily," says Dr. Martin Fiser, an asthma specialist and lung association volunteer.

"It's an easy way to monitor the child's breathing daily, and what kinds of school and play activities they can take part in," he said. The peak flow meter can also be used by teachers, coaches and school nurses to help a child with asthma, Fiser added.

The peak flow meter is made of durable plastic and is easy to use. It can be purchased through local medical supply stores or pharmacies for about $25.

"The best way to figure out how a child with asthma is doing is by using a peak flow meter at home, record it and having your doctor review it," Dr. Fiser said.

The peak flow meter booklet is free, paid for by the annual Christmas Seal Campaign. For your free copy, call the American Lung Association of Arkansas at 1-800-586-4872.