Peak flow test
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 considered a normal score depends on your age, height and gender.
To help diagnose asthma, your result can be compared to what would usually be expected for someone of your age, height and gender.
A significant difference between your score and a normal score, or a difference in your scores in the morning and evening or when your symptoms are good and bad, may suggest you have asthma.
If you're monitoring your asthmaat home, your score should be compared to your best result at a point when your condition was well controlled.
A big difference between your current and best score could be a sign that your condition is becoming poorly controlled or that you'rehaving an asthma attack.
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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