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Measurement of PEFR requires training to correctly use a meter and the normal expected value depends on the patient's sex, age, and height. It is classically reduced in obstructive lung disorders such as asthma. Due to the wide range of 'normal' values and the high degree of variability, peak flow is not the recommended test to identify asthma.
Brittle asthma is a type of asthma distinguishable from other forms by recurrent, severe attacks. [ 1 ] [ 2 ] [ 3 ] There are two subtypes divided by symptoms: Type 1 and Type 2, [ 4 ] depending on the stability of the patient's maximum speed of expiration, or peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR).
TLC: Total lung capacity: the volume in the lungs at maximal inflation, the sum of VC and RV. TV: Tidal volume: that volume of air moved into or out of the lungs in 1 breath (TV indicates a subdivision of the lung; when tidal volume is precisely measured, as in gas exchange calculation, the symbol TV or V T is used.)
Pulmonary function testing is a safe procedure; however, there is cause for concern regarding untoward reactions and the value of the test data should be weighed against potential hazards. Some complications include dizziness, shortness of breath, coughing, pneumothorax, and inducing an asthma attack. [13] [14]
In a mild exacerbation the peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) is ≥200 L/min, or ≥50% of the predicted best. [114] Moderate is defined as between 80 and 200 L/min, or 25% and 50% of the predicted best, while severe is defined as ≤ 80 L/min, or ≤25% of the predicted best.
Pages for logged out editors learn more. Contributions; Talk; Peak expiratory flow rate
Respiratory rate is the number of breaths per minute. A non-specific measure of respiratory disorder. Tidal volume (Vt) is the volume inspired and expired with each breath. Variability in the wave form can be used to differentiate between restrictive (less) and obstructive pulmonary diseases as well as acute anxiety.
A spirometer is the main piece of equipment used for basic Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs). Lung diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema may be ruled out from the tests. In addition, a spirometer often is used for finding the cause of shortness of breath, assessing the effect of contaminants on lung function, the effect of medication ...