What are the Symptoms of a Paralyzed Diaphragm?
November 6, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
A paralyzed diaphragm, also known as diaphragmatic paralysis, is a condition in which one or both sides of the diaphragm, the primary muscle responsible for breathing, are partially or completely paralyzed. The symptoms of a paralyzed diaphragm can vary in severity and may include:
- Shortness of Breath: One of the most common and noticeable symptoms is shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or when lying flat. This occurs because the paralyzed diaphragm is less effective at expanding the lungs and allowing for sufficient airflow.
- Difficulty Breathing: Individuals with diaphragmatic paralysis may experience difficulty taking deep breaths or fully expanding their lungs. This can lead to shallow, rapid breathing and a sense of air hunger.
- Reduced Exercise Tolerance: Exercise intolerance is often a result of the decreased lung capacity caused by the paralyzed diaphragm. People may find it challenging to engage in physical activities and may become fatigued quickly.
- Orthopnea: Orthopnea is a condition in which individuals find it easier to breathe in an upright or elevated position. People with diaphragmatic paralysis may experience this when they sleep, making it difficult to lie flat.
- Chest Pain: Some individuals may experience chest pain, particularly on the side with the paralyzed diaphragm. This can be due to the additional strain on the chest muscles while breathing.
- Ineffective Cough: The inability to take deep breaths and generate sufficient airflow can lead to an ineffective cough, making it challenging to clear mucus or other irritants from the airways.
- Voice Changes: Weakness in the diaphragm can affect the coordination of the diaphragm and the vocal cords. This can result in changes in voice quality and difficulty projecting the voice.
- Paradoxical Movement: In some cases, the paralyzed diaphragm can move paradoxically, meaning it moves upward during inhalation instead of descending. This can further impede effective breathing.
- Digestive Issues: Individuals with diaphragmatic paralysis may experience digestive symptoms such as bloating, reflux, or difficulty swallowing, as the diaphragm also plays a role in the function of the lower esophageal sphincter.
- Asymmetrical Chest Movement: When observing the chest during breathing, it may be evident that one side moves less than the other, indicating diaphragmatic paralysis.
Diaphragmatic paralysis can be caused by various factors, including nerve damage, injury, or underlying medical conditions. It is typically diagnosed through pulmonary function tests, imaging studies (such as chest X-rays or fluoroscopy), and electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve and muscle function.
Treatment for diaphragmatic paralysis depends on the underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. It may include physical therapy to strengthen the diaphragm and other respiratory muscles, supportive measures like using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine during sleep, or, in some cases, surgical interventions to reposition or stimulate the paralyzed diaphragm. Management is usually carried out in collaboration with a healthcare professional, such as a pulmonologist or a neurologist, and is tailored to the individual’s specific needs.