valsalva's maneuver

Valsalva's maneuver involves forcefully exhaling against a closed airway, usually by pinching the nose and closing the mouth, creating increased pressure in the chest and abdomen. This action affects blood flow and heart rate by momentarily reducing blood return to the heart and altering blood pressure. It is often used in medical examinations to assess heart function or autonomic nervous system responses, and sometimes intentionally performed during activities like heavy lifting or certain breathing exercises. The maneuver's effects are temporary, and proper technique is important to avoid potential adverse effects.