What is a Respiratory Muscle Strength Test?
Respiratory muscle strength testing is two tests that measure the strength of the muscles you use to breathe. Besides normal breathing, you use your respiratory muscles for deep breathing during exercise and when coughing to clear the lungs. Respiratory muscle strength testing is particularly important for patients with diseases involving muscle weakness, such as muscular dystrophy.
Description of the Test
Respiratory muscle strength is measured by having your child place padded nose clips on their nose and place their mouth around a single-use, disposable, filtered mouthpiece. Respiratory muscle strength testing is comprised of two separate tests:
Maximal Inspiratory Pressure (MIP)
This test measures the strength of the muscles used to take in deep breaths. It starts with normal resting breathing. This is followed by blowing out all of the air until the lungs are almost completely empty. Then, when the mouthpiece closes, your child sucks in their breath as hard as they can. The mouthpiece closes for only a few seconds. The harder your child can suck in, the stronger their inspiratory muscles are.
Maximal Expiratory Pressure (MEP)
This test measures the strength of the muscles used to cough. It starts with normal resting breathing, with your child's hands on their cheeks so they get a good seal on the mouthpiece and an accurate test result. This is followed by taking in a very deep breath. Then, when the mouthpiece closes, your child will blow out as hard as they can. The mouthpiece closes for only a few seconds. The harder your child blows out, the stronger their expiratory muscles are.
How long does it take?
This test usually takes less than 20 minutes to complete.
Do I need to prepare my child for this test?
There is no special preparation for this test.
Possible Side Effects of the Test
There are no side effects for Respiratory Muscle Strength Testing. Your child may resume normal activity after testing.
