Peak flow test
Why peak flow is measured
By measuring how fast you're able to breathe out, your peak flow score can indicate whether your airways are narrowed.
This could be a sign that you have Asthma , although other tests such as spirometry willoften be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
If you've already been diagnosed with asthma, measuring your peak flow regularly can be a useful way of monitoring your condition.
Your score can showwhether or not your condition is getting worse. It can also check if your medication is working, and indicate whether you're having an asthma attack.
Measuring your peak flow before and after exposure to a possible asthma trigger, such as something you're allergic to or a substance you're exposed to at work, may also show if anything in particular causes your symptoms.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Peak flow is a simple measurement of how quickly you can blow air out of your lungs. Read about why and how it's measured.
Why peak flow is measured
By measuring how fast you're able to breathe out, your peak flow score can indicate whether your airways are narrowed. This could be a sign that you have Asthma , although other tests such as spirome
How to measure your peak flow
The first time your peak flow is measured, you'll be taught how to do it by a doctor or nurse. Thereafter, they may advise you to carry out the test regularly at home using your own peak flow meter.
Your peak flow score
Your peak flow score also known as your peak expiratory flow (PEF) will be displayed on the side of your peak flow meter. This is given in litres of air breathed out per minute (l/min). What's consid
What to do ifyour peak flow is low
If you have a personal asthma action plan, itmight say what you should do when your peak flow score falls to a certain level. You mayjust need to use one of your inhalers, or you may need to seek med
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