Home Lung Function Test: Results

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Results

A home lung function test uses a peak flow meter to monitor and evaluate any breathing problems you may have on a day-to-day basis. A peak flow meter allows you to measure your peak expiratory flow (PEF). PEF measures how fast you can exhale using the greatest effort. Results from this test can be compared to monitor the progression of disease or help measure your response to medical treatment for a long-term (chronic) lung disease, such as asthma.

Peak flows are compared to charts that list normal values based on age, sex, race, and height. They also can be compared with your personal best measurement. Check with your health professional or read the information included with your peak flow meter to find your normal range, which will vary depending on the type of breathing problems you may have. If you find abnormal results on any of the tests, discuss them with your health professional.

• Normally there is a slight variation (10% to 15%) between PEF measurements taken in the morning and in the afternoon.
• For a person who does not have asthma, peak flows may vary between 10% and 15% throughout the day.
• For a person who has poorly controlled asthma, peak flows may vary more than 20% throughout the day.

Last updated:	January 24, 2007
Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Reviewed By:	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine, R. Steven Tharratt, MD, MPVM, FACP, FCCP - Pulmonology, Critical Care, Medical Toxicology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer