Peak expiratory flow rate

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Lungs

Match test

Spirometry

Peak flow

Normal values vary considerably according to a person's age, sex, and size. Peak flow measurements are most useful when a person is able to take and compare peak flow measurements on a day-to-day basis.

A fall in peak flow, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as increased cough, shortness of breath, or wheezing, may signal the onset of a flare of lung disease. This may require early treatment to prevent complications.

Air flow during exhalation is decreased when the airways are narrowed or blocked. Peak expiratory flow monitoring can be used by many patients to monitor their lung function at home. This allows them to anticipate when their breathing will become worse and to take appropriate medications or call their health care providers before symptoms become too severe.

If you note that your peak flow is decreasing, you should tell your healthcare provider.

Review Date: 02/27/2006
Reviewed By: David A. Kaufman, M.D., Assistant Professor, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.