Home Lung Function Test

Home Lung Function Test

Test Overview

A home lung function test uses a peak flow meter Click here to see an illustration. or a home spirometer 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. A home spirometer allows you to measure your forced expiratory volume at 1 second (FEV1).

If you have a lung disease, such as asthma, your doctor may test your peak inspiratory flow (PIF) and peak expiratory flow (PEF) to measure the amount of air you can inhale and exhale. This is part of a more complete lung function test.

Author:
Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Robert L. Cowie, MB, FCP(SA), MD, MSc, MFOM - Pulmonology
Last Updated:
November 22, 2010
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Topic Contents
Test Overview
Why It Is Done
How To Prepare
How It Is Done
How It Feels
Risks
Results
What Affects the Test
What To Think About
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