Doctor Visits, Medical Procedures and Medical Insurance / Question
Published: July 20, 2009
Dear TeenHealthFX,
My doctor said that I'm going to have a test called the methacholine challenge. Could you tell me more about this?
Signed: What Is A Methacholine Challenge?
Dear What Is A Methacholine Challenge?,
What Is A Methacholine Challenge?
A methacholine challenge (MCT) is the most commonly performed inhalation challenge test used by doctors. This breathing test helps doctors to assess whether a person has asthma or exercised induced asthma. Measurements taken during this test help a doctor determine the level of airway hyperresponsiveness so an accurate diagnosis can be made and so the right medication can be prescribed, if necessary. It is a test that is both painless and safe.
What Is Asthma?
For our readers who may not know, asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways associated with wheezing, chest tightness, breathlessness, and cough. These symptoms may be associated with airflow limitation that is at least partially reversible, either spontaneously or with treatment.
Before The Test
If you are taking medication(s) for breathing issues, you may need to stop these medications prior to the test so they do not interfere with the test results. When you meet with your doctor to schedule the test, find out his/her specific instructions as to what to do about your meds before the MCT is performed.
How Is A Methacholine Challenge Performed?
The doctor or medical technician performing the procedure will generally begin by teaching the patient a few different ways of breathing. The patient will then blow into a tube (using the same effort as blowing out birthday candles) and the baseline lung functioning will be assessed.
Next the patient inhales methacholine aerosols through a nebulizer – this will not feel different on the throat or mouth. Methacholine will be inhaled in increasing concentrations – and the patient will repeat earlier parts of the tests after each increased dose to check for changes.
Then the patient is given a bronchodilator (medicine that helps to open the small airways in the lungs) either by inhaler or nebulizer. The first breathing test will be repeated again to determine if there are any changes as a result of using the bronchodilator.
After The Test
After the MCT you can expect your doctor to discuss the test results with you, to tell you if he/she plans on prescribing any medications for you, and to educate you about how to use whatever medications or treatments are recommended.
If you have any further questions about an MCT, speak to your doctor prior to the procedure.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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