peak flows and covid

I tested positive for covid on Monday.

Last thursday, I noticed my peak flows had dropped by 15-20% of my personal best of 660 (predicted 640). My peak flows started to average 550-570.

Does covid reduce peak flows in normal people???

I am thinking yes as the virus affects the airways.

[Badbessie]

With Omicron variant it normally affects the upper airways and would reduce peak flows to some degree but not as severely as earlier variants. What you must take into account is that any chest infection will reduce lung function. Obviously if your peak flows do not return to normal after a few weeks speak with your GP.

[Hidden in reply to Badbessie]

Thanks for your reply. The reduction in my peak flows on Thursday could have been a early warning sign for COVID before I tested postive on Monday and getting symptoms.

My airways could have detected the virus and my immune system kicked in hence the reduction in peak flows.

I am double jabbed and boosted. My symptoms were rhinitis, burning throat and stomach/chest tightness.

Hopefully my peak flows will normalise.

[knitter in reply to Hidden]

Maybe check with the BLF helpline on 03000 030 555 .Have you got an oximeter to check your oxygen levels

[Jaybird19 in reply to Hidden]

I would welcome a peak flow like that, mine has been 250 -300 for years . Had you joined the covid app Zoe ? Doing a scientific survey . They are collecting info about early symptoms as they are changing so much. You just tick a box saying normal or not feeling right on how you feel ,daily or weekly w whatever you choose and if you dont feel normal then tick a few more boxes . They might follow this up.Just a cross section of the population .

. I had 2days feeling very cold while room temp was normal and above , and they asked for PCR which turned out to be neg although i later had been very hot and sticky overnight and obviously had some other bug. You can book PCR appointment or have it sent to your home address , and also collected when you call 119 or post in priority marked post box . 119 can direct you to the nearest .

[Hidden]

As advised, my oxgyen stats have been 98-99% with normal heart rate since testing positive for covid.

I was LFT covid positive on Monday, I did a home PCR test on Wednesday (still waiting result) and another LFT on Thursday which was positive. Sat will be day 5 of isolation.

[tavymaid]

i too would welcome a peak flow like that. Mine is average 200/220

[garibaldon]

You sound as fit as a butchers dog to me