Perception of Airflow in Asthmatics

This article summarizes current knowledge about perception of airflow in asthmatics, emphasizing findings in the pediatric age group. The literature is reviewed and analyzed in an effort to establish what is known and what remains to be determined. Recommendations are made for simple therapeutic interventions—home recording of estimated and measured peak flow—that have been shown to result in accurate perception. The importance of accurate perception in terms of medication compliance and institution of timely therapy is discussed.