Evaluation of peak cough flow in Brazilian healthy adults.

INTRODUCTION: In this study we aimed to evaluate the peak cough flow (PCF) in healthy Brazilian subjects. METHODS: We evaluated 484 healthy subjects between 18 and 40 years old. Subjects were seated and oriented were asked to perform a maximal inspiration followed by a quick, short and explosive expiration on the peak flow meter. Three measures were carried out and recorded the average of the three results for each individual. RESULTS: The PCF values ranged between 240 and 500 L/min. The PCF values were lower in females than in males. The PCF was inversely proportional to age. CONCLUSION: The values for Brazilian adult healthy subjects regarding PCF were between 240 and 500 L/min.