Peakflow v fev1

[Homely2]

I have always been puzzled Re peakflow v fev.

My best peakflow reading is 660, but at present I am in the low 400s with lots of ventolin to keep it out of the 300s, where I tend to lose control. I am rather out of breath.

However my fev1 reading is in the high 300s which is perfectly OK given my age etc.

So why is my fev OK, when my peakflow is not

[Collienut]

I think you need to speak to your GP or Consultant, or at the least speak to your asthma nurse. Do you have care plan from your asthma nurse/GP which gives guidance what to do, who to contact?

[Poobah]

I agree with Collienut. As your peak flow had dropped significantly, you should be stepping up your treatment with the aid of your asthma plan and GP/asthma nurse, especially as you're having to use additional Ventolin.

[AJP2]

You need an urgent review due to needing lots of ventolin, being short of breath and having a low peak flow. With a PB of 660 you will be in the amber zone at 528 and red at 396, so seems to me like you are virtually in the red zone (if you do not have an asthma action plan then look it up on the asthma and lung uk website - its not just based on peak flow so you may already be in the red for symptoms/ventolin use). You can start by phoning your GP surgery today you will need to highlight to them how bad you are don't just say you need it for asthma, if they refuse to see you ask where else you can be seen (walk in clinics etc) sometimes then they will suddenly be able to see you after all. Remember you can also use 111 or 999 if needed.

As for the FEV1 being "normal" I expect that is because it is based on predicted levels for your age/height and your "normal" may be higher than that but it's important to look at the whole picture and everything else is pointing to you needing an urgent review.

Good luck