There are numerous other measures you can use in order to determine the state of your breathing. The following are done at your doctor’s office:
1. Bloodwork CO2 : Usually conducted during a standard electrolyte or metabolic panel, this test measures the amount of bicarbonate (HCO3-) in the blood. Results indicating an imbalance of oxygen and carbon dioxide may suggest kidney or lung dysfunction.
2. Spirometry (e.g., FVC and FEV1): A fairly common lung function test, spirometry measures the amount of air that can be exhaled after a full inhalation. Forced vital capacity (FVC) refers to the total amount of expelled air after a forcible exhalation, while forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) refers to the total amount of air exhaled in the first second. Results of this test may indicate a range of lung dysfunctions.
3. VO2 Max: This refers to the maximum rate of oxygen consumption during aerobic exercise. Measuring VO2 max typically involves a graded exercise test on a treadmill or stationary bicycle, in which ventilation and O2 and CO2 concentration are recorded while the exercise increases in intensity. VO2 max determines physical fitness and endurance.
4. A test of your heart rate variability: Heart rate variability refers to the difference in time between heartbeats. Increased heart rate variability reflects good cardiovascular health, for it implies that the heart is responsive to the body’s demands. However, decreased variability may correlate to poorer cardiovascular health, and recent studies suggest that it might impact the prognosis of patients with myocardial infarction and chronic heart failure.
On your own, you can take the following measurements:
1. Use a finger pulse oximeter (most drugstores carry them).
2. Observe the rate of your breath (the general rule is that slower is better).
3. Take a one-time breath-hold (the average is forty-five seconds).
4. Measure your own acidity (pH strips).
5. Note your resting heart rate.