Table 4 Spirometry and vagal function tests: baseline and following saline and acid perfusion (all asthmatics; n=40)

FVC

3.2 ± 0.10

3.2 ± 0.10

3.2 ± 0.10

0.084

FEV₁

2.7 ± 0.08

2.7 ± 0.08

2.6 ± 0.07

0.001

PEFR

4.2 ± 0.14

4.1 ± 0.15

4.0 ± 0.13

0.023

Vagal function tests

Valsalva ratio

1.26 ± 0.04

1.23 ± 0.03

1.31 ± 0.04

0.011

Heart rate ratio on standing from supine position

1.16 ± 0.02

1.14 ± 0.02

1.12 ± 0.02

0.612

Heart rate difference on deep breathing

23.09 ± 1.16

23.6 ± 1.16

26.0 ± 1.40

0.004