How to Measure Your Peak Expiratory Flow
Set meter to lowest number: Step 1 Back to top
Put the pointer on the gauge of the peak flow meter to 0 or the lowest number on the meter. In the photograph, this is about 50.
Attach mouthpiece: Step 2 Back to top
Attach the mouthpiece to the peak flow meter. Some meters don't have a separate mouthpiece.
Put mouthpiece in your mouth: Step 4 Back to top
Put the peak flow meter mouthpiece in your mouth, and close your lips tightly around the outside of the mouthpiece. Don't put your tongue inside the mouthpiece.
Breath out hard: Step 5 Back to top
Breathe out as hard and as fast as you can for 1 or 2 seconds. A hard and fast breath usually produces a "huff" sound.
Check your number: Step 6 Back to top
Check the number on the gauge, and write it down. This is your peak expiratory flow (PEF). In the photograph above, the PEF is about 180.
Last Revised: March 17, 2011
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Lora J. Stewart
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