The Emphysema Response to Forced Straining (Valsalva's Maneuver)

Abstract

Changes in arterial pressure were recorded during and after forced straining (Valsalva's maneuver) in 29 patients with emphysema. The response in these patients differed greatly from that found in normal subjects and in patients with cardiac disease. Additional physiologic data did not serve to define the mechanisms of this unique response in emphysema to forced straining.