When monitoring peak flows I find that they are always low in the morning after waking up. My peak flows are around 250 in the mornings. Is it normal to not be breathing at full capacity in the morning? They go up to 450 in the afternoons and evenings. Is this normal or a sign that my Asthma is not being controlled. How long should someone be on a steroid inhaler before they should see the full benefits of it?
- Resources
6/24/09 12:48pm
Asthma is historically known as a disease of the night. It is perfectly normal to have lower peak flows in the morning than in the evening. That's why it is important when you monitor you peak flows that you do so in the am and pm so you know what your normal is for each time of day. It usually takes 2-3 weeks for inhaled corticosteroids to get into your system.
Ideally, you and your doctor should have worked out an Asthma Action Plan that works best for you. While the peak flows you list here may be normal for you, this is something you should discuss with you physician.
Most asthma experts recommend an Asthma Action Plan include the monitoring of peak flows using the formula listed in this link here).
Going by the formula in the previous link, you should determine your personal best.
Assuming 450 is your personal best, 360 or better would be in the acceptable range, and anything less you need to take some sort of action. Since 270 is less than 60%, that action should be to call your physician or 911.
Ideally you should contact your physician either way just to be on the safe side, because he or she knows you better than we do.
Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of Remedy Health Media. Remedy Health Media does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.
By Inhaler— Last Modified: 12/19/10, First Published: 06/24/09
Featuring Content From:
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2012 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
