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The Southern Medical Journal recently published a study involving 284 COPD patients exhibiting acute exacerbation of their lung disease, of which 11 succumbed to the disease.
Independent variables were measured to assess their predictive value in assessing the risk of death. Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF), Long-Term Oxygen Therapy, and Body Mass Index were monitored in all cases.
It was concluded that Peak Expiratory Flow showed the best specificity and maximum sensitivity for predicting death. A Peak Flow Meter (PFM) such as TruZone* PFM is a simple, portable and inexpensive device that measures daily peak expiratory flow. If used properly, it can be a very valuable tool in monitoring and managing asthma or COPD. It can be used to:
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Assess severity of the disease
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Check response to treatment
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Monitor progress of treatment
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Detect worsening of lung function
A PFM such as TruZone* PFM may detect a decrease in peak flow even before the symptoms of the disease get worse. This early warning system provides an opportunity to address the problem before it becomes severe.
This inexpensive, portable device is advantageous in that it can be incorporated into a daily home-use routine for asthma or COPD management.
The ‘one size fits all’ TruZone* PFM uses a logarithmic scale, which makes it easy for patients of all ages to determine significant changes in their PEF and to record their peak flow results daily. ColorZone* tapes eliminate the need for mathematical calculations when determining zones and are easy to apply. TruZone* PFM is easy to hold in any size of hand, and is convenient and portable.
TruZone* PFM is an essential part of effective asthma management – from the makers of AeroChamber* brand of valved holding chambers.
1 de la Iglesia F et al. Peak Expiratory Flow Rate as Predictor of Inpatient Death in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Southern Medical Journal, March 2005, 98:3
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