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Discovering both at-home and medical approaches for measuring NO levels.
Nitric oxide (NO), a critical element synthesized within your body, significantly influences cardiovascular health and serves as a potential marker for inflammation levels. Insufficient NO levels may contribute to hypertension, circulatory issues, and diminished energy. Testing becomes particularly relevant for assessing non-responsive asthma. If experiencing relevant symptoms, monitoring NO levels at home can be achieved using specialized test strips for saliva analysis. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended for further guidance and potential solutions to elevate NO levels. In certain cases, an exhaled nitric oxide test may be conducted for asthma diagnosis.
Procedures
Utilizing pH Test Strips
Acquiring Nitric Oxide Test Strips Several commercially available test strip brands are designed to measure salivary nitric oxide levels, potentially indicating the extent of circulatory nitric oxide production in the body. These strips can be purchased online or from selected pharmacies and health stores. Note that while test strips offer insights, they may not provide a comprehensive representation of internal processes.
Apply the test strip to your tongue for 5 seconds. Nitric oxide pH test strips are designed with a saliva-absorbing pad on one end and a testing pad on the other. Position the absorbing pad flat against your tongue, then remove it after 5 seconds.
- Ensure the test pad side of the strip does not contact your tongue.
Press both ends of the test strip together to obtain a result. Following the removal of the strip from your tongue, fold it in half, ensuring the part that made contact with your tongue aligns with the test pad. Hold the ends together for 5 seconds.
Consult the color chart to interpret your results. The test strip packaging should include a color chart depicting the potential range of nitric oxide levels detected by the strips. A darkened test pad indicates elevated nitric oxide levels, while a lighter color suggests reduced levels.
- In adults, nitric oxide levels below approximately 25 parts per billion are considered normal.
Undergoing an Exhaled Nitric Oxide Test for Asthma
Discuss your respiratory concerns with your physician.
Elevated nitric oxide levels correlate with airway inflammation, prompting pulmonary specialists to assess exhaled nitric oxide levels for asthma diagnosis when standard tests yield inconclusive results. Inform your physician of any breathing difficulties and inquire about the availability of the exhaled nitric oxide test, as it may not be universally accessible.
- Your physician will typically schedule a separate appointment for the test to allow for preparation.
- This test may be requested if you have a confirmed asthma diagnosis, to monitor treatment progress, or to explore alternative treatment options.
Avoid consuming alcohol and tobacco 24 hours before your test. Various factors, even in small quantities, can influence nitric oxide levels in your body. Refrain from alcohol and tobacco use for a full day preceding your test. Inform your physician if you are a regular smoker.
- Consistent alcohol consumption can notably impact nitric oxide levels, so notify your physician if you consume more than one drink daily or indulge in 4-5 drinks monthly at least once.
Avoid engaging in aerobic exercise 24 hours prior to your test. While beneficial for overall health, cardiovascular activities should be abstained from for a complete day before the test. Aerobic exercises elevate nitric oxide levels in the body, potentially influencing test outcomes. Abstain from any form of physical exertion, including:
- Jogging or running
- Bicycling
- Jumping rope
- Rollerblading
- Dancing
- Speed walking
Avoid receiving an allergy shot the day before your test. Allergy shots introduce allergens into your system to build resistance. Consequently, these vaccinations can affect nitric oxide levels for 24-48 hours post-administration. For accurate results, refrain from scheduling allergy shots within 1-2 days of your nitric oxide test.
Abstain from eating or drinking one hour prior to your test. Consumption of food or beverages immediately before the test can impact nitric oxide release levels. Plan accordingly to abstain from eating or drinking anything for at least one hour before your test appointment. This includes water intake, as it can also skew test results.
Inform your physician of any medications or conditions that may influence your results. Nitric oxide levels can be influenced by various health conditions and treatments. Disclose all prescription and over-the-counter medications you are currently taking. If you are experiencing flu, allergies, or any other ailments, inform your physician to exclude other potential causes of symptoms.
- Provide information about any prior respiratory tests you have undergone.
Adhere to the technician's breathing instructions throughout the test. The exhaled nitric oxide test typically lasts around 5 minutes. When ready, allow the technician to affix clips to your nose and insert a mouthpiece into your mouth. Follow their guidance to inhale and exhale slowly until instructed to cease.
- Multiple test repetitions may be necessary for result confirmation.
- Nitric oxide exhalation levels will be recorded via the mouthpiece for test evaluation.
Elevating Your Nitric Oxide Levels
Incorporate 30 minutes of cardiovascular activity into your daily routine. Engaging in cardiovascular exercise stimulates nitric oxide production in the body. Strive for a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous cardio exercise daily. Activities such as running, cycling, swimming, rollerblading, dancing, or brisk walking can fulfill this requirement.
- If unable to allocate 30 consecutive minutes, divide the duration into 10-15 minute intervals.
Consume nitrogen and protein-rich foods. Nitrogen-rich foods metabolize into nitric oxide within the body, while high-protein foods contain arginine, a precursor to nitric oxide. Incorporate 1-2 servings daily of foods such as:
- Kale
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- Beets
- Legumes
- Nuts
- Beans
- Fish (e.g. salmon)
- Meats (e.g. beef, chicken)
- Cheese
- Eggs
Obtain at least 20 minutes of sunlight exposure daily. UV light exposure stimulates the release of endogenous nitric oxide stores within the body. Allocate a minimum of 20 minutes daily for outdoor activities, such as short walks or breaks. Apply SPF sunscreen to safeguard against sun damage.
