maximal respiratory pressure

[cannkirkland]

I'm currently being assessed for mitochondrial disease. My report says "maximal respiratory pressures were decreased 55- 65%,"  yet my lungs are supposedly normal. The doctor said it has to do with my muscles  aroung the lungs which are weakening.  What is "maximal respiratory pressures?" I just feel severe tightness in my chest and coughing at night.

[Sunny602]

I have regular PT to keep my muscles in the best shape possible. They come twice a week and work on me for about a hour each time. Before I wound up on the vent, I did go to pulmonary rehab which did help some...I was inpatient one time for 3 weeks, the last time was outpatient for a few months. It did help me get some of my stamina back..
I also do as much as I can without trying to overdo it. I get easily fatigued so I have to pace myself but as long as I am able to do things, I do it even though it might be hard to do.
I hope this helps...Sunny ;)

[cannkirkland]

Thanks for the info. Is there such a thing as pulmonary rehabilitation for the muscles? With your muscle disease, Is there anything you are doing to try to keep your muscles in shape?

[Sunny602]

I wonder if they mean maximum inspiratory/expiratory pressures. Those values do depend on the muscle drive behind taking a breath. If they are low, then a doc will look into neuromuscular reasons as to why this is happening. Many times, the lungs are okay...they call this extrinsic disease meaning that the lungs aren't affected but something outside of the lungs is affecting how they are working (ie..muscle weakness)
I hope this helps some...I have muscle disease along with many other problems and have been through this personally, if you have any questions I will be happy to help. Sunny