Peak Flow

[NeoDude]

Hey folks,

Have my NATS class 1 medical coming up on the 25th and I'm a bit worried about the lung function tests

I have a peak flow meter at home and can manage between 500-550 with a good blow. I'm really paranoid that this isn't going to be enough. I stopped smoking last week in the hope that this will help it rise a little. Is there anything else I can do to improve my score?

Thanks in advance for any insights

[gingernut]

What's your age, sex and height?

[NeoDude]

30yo
Male
5'9"

[gingernut]

Sounds like a pretty good reading for someone of your age and height.

Good luck, keep off the tabs.

[cotterpot]

Sounds like a pretty good reading for someone of your age and height.
What are you basing that comment on?
See here http://www.healthcaresouth.com/pages/asthmaaverpeak.htm

I'm 57 5' 10'' and I can do 550. But I don't smoke.

[gingernut]

What are you basing that comment on?

The British Thoracic Society Guidelines.

Cotterpot, your reading is far too healthy, have you considered taking up smoking?

In all seriousness, the guidelines are just that, a guide. The peak flow is a part of the big picture. I guess the powers that be will be more interested in respiratory symptoms rather than just numbers.

(They think like pilots rather than engineers)

[cotterpot]

I agree ginger that it is just one indicator, speaking as someone who lost class 2 medical in Jan on basis of first degree heart block - in spite of my otherwise relative fitness. All tests ok so waiting for it to be reinstated