u/koala34

NIF values

Hello all!

Im diagnosed seronegative MG with symptoms dating back 10 years. Prior to Oct 2025, didnt have any breathing issues just swallowing, speech and double vision and very mild ptosis.

Because its so new, I had a question about how to interpret NIF values. When I first went to the ED with the new onset breathing issues, my NIF was a -35. The doctor said "thats normal" and almost discharged me on the spot.

In fairness, I hadnt been diagnosed officially yet because my symptoms were mild and im seronegative. So they werent really looking for that. But I dont have asthma and had excellent respiratory function before that.

What does -35 tell us with MG? My understanding is that it means my breathing is not doing particularly well but not at ventilation need. I certainly felt like my lungs were very weak and got weaker after trying hard on the NIF. Discharged at -45.

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u/koala34 — 15 hours ago