Author Archives: Jackie Aim

What will happen if I have a skin prick test?

Skin prick testing sites

Skin prick testing sites

A small amount of allergen is put just under the skin to produce a localised reaction. This looks like a wheal (bump) and flare (redness) at the puncture site.

The type of allergen used is decided after consultation with medical staff and based on each person’s medical history and symptoms .

Roughly between 6-15 allergens can be tested at one time (possibly more on a larger area of skin).

If you are allergic to any of the test substances your body will produce antibodies. These react with the allergen and cells within your body release a substance called histamine, this is what causes the symptoms of itching swelling and release of fluid.

Skin allergy testing (skin prick testing)

Skin prick testing sites

Skin prick testing sites

Another type of test you may have in a hospital out patient clinic is the skin prick test.

Skin prick testing shows an allergic response to a specific allergen.

The skin prick test is simple, safe and quick giving results within 15 minutes. It helps to identify allergens to help you manage your condition and avoid possible triggers.

A small amount of allergen is put just under the skin to produce a localised reaction. This looks like a wheal (bump) and flare (redness) at the puncture site.

It can be carried out on any age group and it is routinely carried out on the inner forearm.

In the rare event of a more severe reaction to the allergens, staff may give an adrenalin injection if required and will support you until you have fully recovered.

Skin prick tests are most commonly used but there are also Immunoglobulin E blood allergy tests and patch testing.

Peak flow diary

A peak flow diary allows you to chart your symptoms and peak flow readings.

Your GP or respiratory nurse will be able to provide you with a diary.

It is helpful to take your peak flow diary to your regular reviews or appointments to let your doctor or nurse see how stable your COPD has been.

You can also order or download peak flow diaries free of charge online.

Example of a peak flow diary

Example of a peak flow diary

Download your own peak flow template:
Peak flow diary template [.pdf, 234KB]

Where do you get a peak flow meter?

Pharmacist demonstrating how to use a peak flow meter

Pharmacist demonstrating how to use a peak flow meter

Your GP or respiratory nurse should be able to provide you with a peak flow meter.

It should continue to give reliable results for up to 3 years or as per manufacturers instructions.

Your peak flow meter should be cleaned as per manufacturers instructions.

What is a normal peak flow?

A chart called a ‘nomogram’ can be used to estimate your predicted peak flow if you are male or female, your age and height.

It is important to remember that everyone is different and you should be guided by what is normal for you.

Measuring your peak flow when you feel well will establish your normal or best peak flow.

pef_graph

How do you use a peak flow meter?

View text alternative

This is a peak flow meter and I’m going to show you how to use it.

Slide the pointer down to the bottom of the scale.
Lightly hold the meter on its edge in front of you, with the scale away from your hand.

Take as deep a breath in as you can.
Hold your breath. Place the mouthpiece well into your mouth and seal your lips firmly around it.

Blow as hard and as fast as you can for a second or more, being careful not to block the mouthpiece with your tongue or your teeth.

And I’m now going to show you how to do it.

INHALES

EXHALES

Your peak flow reading is show on the scale against the pointer.
Make a note of the reading and slide the pointer back to the bottom of the scale.

Blow in 3 times and make a note of the reading after each time, and then compare the highest score with your action plan.

You will soon get to know your own normal readings.
You should take the peak flow reading twice a day, morning and evening.

If you become unwell, one of the first signs you might notice is a change in your peak flow reading.

If there are big differences between your morning and evening readings, or if you start to wake at night with a cough or a wheeze, this could be a sign that your asthma is worsening and you should seek medical advice.


  • Stand up if possible or sit up straight.
  • Put the pointer to zero.
  • Hold the meter as per manufacturers instructions, ensure your fingers do not obstruct the scale.
  • Breathe in as deeply as possible, seal your lips firmly around the mouthpiece then blow out as hard and as fast as you can (like blowing out a candle).
  • Be careful not to block the hole with your tongue or teeth and try to avoid coughing or spitting into the meter.
  • Your peak flow is shown on the scale against the pointer. Note where it is and slide the pointer back down to the bottom of the scale.
  • You should do this test three times, one after the other. The readings should be about the same.
  • Record the highest of the three blows in your peak flow diary.

What is a peak flow?

Not all people with COPD will be asked to monitor their peak flow, however, your GP may recommend this for you.

  • Peak flow is a measurement of how fast you can blow air out of your lungs.
  • It shows how wide your airways are at the time of taking the test.
  • It can be helpful to assess how well your symptoms are controlled.

Working together

Asthma review

© Crown copyright

  • Asthma management needs a team approach.
  • Teenagers can manage their asthma but will still need support from their parents.
  • Parents can’t make their teenager take medication.
  • Good asthma control is not hard to achieve for the majority of teenagers but you need to work together, teenagers, parents and your asthma team.
  • Knowing how to do your bit and understanding what the rest of your team is doing is vital.