What is Peak Flow, Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF)?
PEF is the fastest speed at which you can blow air OUT of your lungs, after inhaling as big a breath as you can. Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF) is measured in liters per minute. What is a Peak Flow Meter? A peak flow meter is a device that measures how well air moves out of the lungs. This device is designed for ongoing monitoring, not diagnosis, and it is most helpful for patients who must take asthma medication daily. During an episode of asthma, the airways of the lungs begin to narrow slowly. The results of using a peak flow meter may indicate narrowing hours possibly even days before any particular asthma symptoms are apparent. Daily Peak Flow Monitoring is helpful to: • Establish the asthma sufferer’s personal best Peak Expiratory Flow, PEF . • Detect early changes in asthma status that may require treatment. • Evaluate responses to therapy changes. • Show asthma sufferers the severity of airflow obstruction. • Identify the relationship between PEF and exposure to daily environmental
