pulse oximetry (SpO2) – to measure the level of oxygen in the blood (at rest and breathing room air).

If someone presents in hospital with rapidly decompensating ventilatory failure, intubation or a tracheostomy may be carried out.Īs part of the initial assessment to diagnose MND, or soon after diagnosis, tests should be performed to establish the baseline respiratory function. it may prevent an acute respiratory emergency, or inappropriate action being taken in the event of an emergency.effective management of respiratory function is likely to have a positive impact on quality of life for the person with MND.Monitoring respiratory function will help the health professional and the person with MND to reach decisions about management in a timely way. Note: people with MND may also experience problems with sleep resulting from reduced mobility, muscle cramps, swallowing problems and anxiety. complain of waking with a headache, feeling unrefreshed or 'hungover' and not having slept well.Ineffective breathing when lying down at night (orthopnoea) can lead to an imbalance in blood gases and a build-up of carbon dioxide (CO2). Night-time symptoms are often an early indicator of respiratory inefficiency. People with MND may not complain much of breathlessness and, as they often lack mobility, signs of breathlessness due to exertion may be subtle. reduced chest expansion on maximal inspiration.use of accessory muscles of respiration.abdominal paradox (inward movement of the abdomen during inspiration).Early referral to a respiratory specialist is vital if one or more of these occur:

Dead space lung symptoms