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Definition of Valsalva maneuver

Valsalva maneuver: A maneuver in which a person tries to exhale forcibly with a closed glottis (the windpipe) so that no air exits through the mouth or nose as, for example, in strenuous coughing, straining during a bowel movement, or lifting a heavy weight. The Valsalva maneuver impedes the return of venous blood to the heart.

Named for Antonio Maria Valsalva, a renowned Italian anatomist, pathologist, physician, and surgeon (1666-1723) who first described the maneuver.


Last Editorial Review: 6/1/2004

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