In accordance with the American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society guidelines, all participants underwent post-bronchodilator spirometry (VMAX 22 spirometer; Sensormedics, Yorba Linda, CA).[15 (link)] The participants inhaled 400 μg salbutamol 20 minutes before testing. We measured FVC, FEV1, and FEV1/FVC ratio.
The peak cough flow (PCF) was assessed using an Asthma Mentor Peak Flow Meter (Respironics, Murrysville, PA).[16 ] Participants performed a quick and explosive expiration after maximal inspiration in the sitting position. The average value from the three tests was calculated.
The peak cough flow (PCF) was assessed using an Asthma Mentor Peak Flow Meter (Respironics, Murrysville, PA).[16 ] Participants performed a quick and explosive expiration after maximal inspiration in the sitting position. The average value from the three tests was calculated.
