However, when a person breathes out, this releases the compression on the heart, allowing it to fill back up with blood.
Breathing out increases the pressure inside the aorta, stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system and decreasing the heart rate again. Doctors can use the Valsalva maneuver to treat people with supraventricular tachycardia SVT. SVT is a rapid heart rate that is typically over beats per minute at rest. It can cause symptoms including heart palpitations, chest pain, and shortness of breath. A heart rate of this speed can be dangerous because the heart cannot pump enough blood when it beats so quickly.
SVT often requires emergency treatment. According to a report in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology , the Valsalva maneuver was more effective in slowing down the heart rate than other similar procedures, such as carotid sinus massage or applying an ice-cold towel to the face. A meta-analysis found that the Valsalva maneuver can restore regular heart rate between If the Valsalva maneuver does not normalize the heart rhythm, a person will need to receive electric shocks, called cardioversion, or medications.
Weightlifters also tend to perform the Valsalva maneuver when they lift heavy weights. Some may try this technique deliberately while others will not realize that they are using it. It is a common belief that using the Valsalva maneuver when lifting heavy weights can provide momentum and trunk stabilization.
The primary side effect of the Valsalva maneuver is hypotension , which is a sudden, persistent decrease in blood pressure. People performing the maneuver may also feel lightheaded or experience syncope, which is a brief loss of consciousness. The Valsalva maneuver can help reduce rapid heart rhythms for some people. It can also help people to pop their ears, lift weights, or have a bowel movement. While the Valsalva maneuver does have some potential side effects, it is a non-invasive alternative to other treatments, such as medication or electric shocks.
Blood pressure is essential to life because it forces the blood around the body, delivering all the nutrients it needs. Here, we explain how to take…. Strain hard and hold the strain for 10 to 15 seconds. The harder you strain, the more likely the maneuver may work. You may also try this maneuver by lying down and putting your legs up, such as on a chair. This may make it more likely for you to stop the SVT.
If this procedure does stop your episode of SVT, call your healthcare provider and let him or her know what happened. If this procedure does not stop your SVT and the palpitations continue for more than 20 minutes, you may need to go to the emergency department for treatment. These places will not be able to give you all the testing and treatment needed for this condition.
Call if your symptoms are severe. This is the fastest and safest way to get to the ER, because paramedics can start treatment on the way to the hospital. Call , or seek medical attention right away if you have any of these symptoms along with the palpitations:. Was this helpful?
Yes No Tell us more. Check all that apply. Valsalva Maneuver. What is a Valsalva maneuver? Why do you need the Valsalva maneuver? Treat clogged ears The Valsalva maneuver can help relieve pressure that is blocking the Eustachian tube in the inner ear. Restore heart rhythm If your heart is experiencing tachycardia , you can restore your heart rhythm by performing the Valsalva maneuver. Risks associated with the Valsalva maneuver Do not attempt the Valsalva maneuver if you have high blood pressure, you are at risk for a stroke or heart attack or you have been diagnosed with an arrhythmia.
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