Valsalvamanövern

Valsalvamanövern, known in English as the Valsalva maneuver, is a breathing technique that involves exhaling against a closed airway. It is commonly performed by closing the mouth and pinching the nose while attempting to push air out, thereby increasing intrathoracic and intraabdominal pressure. The maneuver is used in various medical and athletic contexts to influence heart rate, blood pressure, and spinal alignment.

Physiologically, the Valsalva maneuver temporarily reduces venous return to the heart, which lowers cardiac output and transiently raises systemic blood pressure. After release, the sudden drop in blood pressure can provoke a reflexive increase in heart rate. These cardiovascular changes make the maneuver useful for diagnosing certain cardiac conditions, such as heart block or for relieving certain types of fainting spells (vasovagal syncope). In sports, it is sometimes employed to stabilize the spine before heavy lifts or to increase intraocular pressure during eye examinations.

The maneuver is generally safe when performed correctly, but excessive or prolonged pressure can lead to complications such as fainting, hearing loss, or, in rare cases, retinal hemorrhage. Individuals with certain cardiovascular or ocular conditions should avoid or modify the technique. Healthcare professionals often instruct patients on proper technique and timing to minimize risks and maximize diagnostic or therapeutic benefit.