What Results Does Capnometry Provide?

In our previous blog, What is capnometry and how does it work? , we introduced the respiratory testing technology known as Capnometry administered at ATUNE Health Centres, Cardiff.

Capnometry provides three vital measurements.

1. Respiratory Rate: A Key Indicator Often Overlooked

Firstly, it measures the at rest respiratory or breathing rate. This crucial measurement is rarely tested in those suffering from chronic respiratory or related medical conditions. Many clients we test have an elevated respiratory rate. In addition to other issues, an elevated respiratory rate triggers increased autonomic nervous system activity on a constant and ongoing basis often leading to debilitating physiological or psychological conditions. It is vital that an elevated respiratory rate be detected and corrected as soon as possible.

2. End Tidal CO2: The Brain's Trigger for Breathing

The second measurement taken in Capnometry is the end tidal CO2 reading. This reading indicates the set point of carbon dioxide pressure at which an individual is triggered by the brain to inhale air. It is important to note that the brain does not monitor oxygen to control our breathing but rather carbon dioxide - thus making this a crucial respiratory measurement to test accurately. Many Australians with breathing dysfunction have low end tidal CO2 levels which are linked to many common medical conditions including asthma, anxiety and sleep disorders.

3. Breathing Pattern: Identifying Day and Night Apnoea

The final measurement Capnometry testing provides is the all-important breathing pattern. Many clients tested at ATUNE are found to have a disrupted breathing pattern. This is often due to having a restriction in diaphragm function leading to an upper chest dominant breathing pattern. Our testing has shown that many clients who have undergone sleep studies and been diagnosed with sleep apnoea (that is stopping of breathing whilst asleep) also repeatedly stop breathing whilst awake. Essentially, they suffer from apnoea night and day.

Transformational Results

Clients who proceed with breathing therapy at ATUNE are routinely tested post therapy, with measurements invariably indicating a reduction in respiratory rate, an increase in end tidal CO2 and a new relaxed disruption free breathing pattern with full diaphragm function.

These improvements often result in life changing outcomes.

Article written by Dean O'Rourke

Discover how Capnometry and Breathing Therapy at ATUNE can help you restore healthy breathing, reduce symptoms, and transform your well-being.