Your GP or specialist doctor may have asked you to complete breathing tests as part of their medical clearance for your activity or occupation. This might be for a dive medical, or clearance to join the armed or emergency services. These activities and jobs require extended periods of strenuous physical activity, in demanding or dangerous situations. Hidden or uncontrolled respiratory symptoms, exacerbated by exercise or stress, may put you, or your colleagues or friends in danger.
BreathLab can provide spirometry, bronchodilator testing, fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) or Mannitol bronchial-provocation testing to assist with medical clearances.
Mannitol Bronchial-Provocation Test
Bronchial-provocation tests attempt to provoke the symptoms of asthma, using a variety of mediators that work directly on the smooth muscle tissue within the airways, or indirectly by drying out the airways and triggering a narrowing response.
Mannitol is a medical grade sugar and is the most common indirect provocation test in Australia. It was specifically designed to standardise testing for emergency and armed services, making it quick and easy to perform. Other types of testing include exercise provocation tests, hypertonic saline, or dry and/or cold air (often called a eucapnic voluntary hyperpnea test).
Its important to note that all bronchial-provocation tests may cause some side-affect or discomfort, for example Mannitol often causes cough. Hypertonic saline produces a strong salty inhalation which may cause chest discomfort or a sore throat Detailed testing information will be provided prior to your Mannitol provocation test - ensure you take the time to read these instructions - if you don’t follow them closely, you may be required to re-book your test at your cost.
At your appointment, we will discuss the rationale for testing and the specific testing protocol. Testing starts with baseline spirometry, and then different strengths of the Mannitol are inhaled; spirometry is performed after each stage. Testing is complete when there is a significant change in lung function, or the end of the test is reached. Prior to leaving, you will be offered medication to reverse any negative effects if they occur, and the test results will be explained.
Contact us about Mannitol testing today: your team at BreathLab are experts in bronchial-provocation testing!