Breathing Tests – Peak Expiratory Flow Rate
Peak Expiratory Flow Rate
Peak Flow measures how quickly the person can breathe air out of the lungs. It is performed using a peak flow meter.
- This is a handheld device which the person blows into as hard and as fast as possible, ensuring a good seal with their mouth and the mouth piece.
- It is usually used to monitor asthma.
- If their asthma has deteriorated or is flaring up then the peak flow rate gets lower.
- A chart to record regular measurements of peak flow over time can assess the response to acute or long term treatment.
- The rate should get higher and less variable once asthma is controlled.