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Peak flow meters

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A peak flow meter is an inexpensive, pocket-sized device that measures peak expiratory flow (PEF), or how fast a person can breathe out. To measure PEF, the person takes a deep breath and then blows into a tube on the peak flow meter as hard and as fast as possible. This can be done at home.

Peak flow meters come in many shapes and sizes.

Primary Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD
- Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Harold S. Nelson, MD
- Allergy and Immunology
Last Updated March 22, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: March 22, 2007
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