Multiple Sclerosis respiratory problems are experienced by around 20% of patients and are caused by a variety of factors. If you have respiratory problems you should contact a doctor as soon as possible, especially in case the symptoms are a signs of Multiple Sclerosis respiratory condition. As Multiple Sclerosis affects the central nervous system, and breathing is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, it is quite rare for patients to suffer from Multiple Sclerosis respiratory problems. However, there are other reasons that can cause Multiple Sclerosis respiratory problems in sufferers. Multiple Sclerosis respiratory issues normally affect critically disabled patients who are in the latter stages of the disease. Minor Multiple Sclerosis respiratory symptoms, such as shortness of breath, tightness in the chest and excessive coughing are more likely to be caused by secondary problems associated with Multiple Sclerosis.
Secondary Causes of Multiple Sclerosis Respiratory Symptoms
Multiple Sclerosis sufferers are more at risk of developing conditions like pneumonia, as they are unable to clear mucus from their lungs. Many times symptoms that were thought of as Multiple Sclerosis respiratory problem may actually be the early symptoms of pneumonia; this is why any new respiratory problems should be checked thoroughly by a doctor. Other causes for Multiple Sclerosis respiratory problems can be muscle weakness in the chest area and side effects of some Multiple Sclerosis drugs. Patients who are prescribed tranquilizers or opioid analgesics, like codeine, might find their body’s breathing mechanism affected. Multiple Sclerosis respiratory problems can also be caused by allergic reactions to some of the commonly-used Multiple Sclerosis medications, though these cases are rare.
Treating Multiple Sclerosis Respiratory Problems
People who are experiencing Multiple Sclerosis respiratory symptoms are more likely to be treated with physical therapy than with medication, unless they are diagnosed with a secondary condition, such as pneumonia. Learning breathing exercises from a physiotherapist can help to relieve some Multiple Sclerosis respiratory problems, along with gentle exercise regimes, like yoga. If the problem is associated with a buildup of mucus, then a friend or relative can learn how to loosen these accretions through a process called chest percussion, which involves tapping on specific points on the chest and back. Many simple steps can alleviate the symptoms associated with Multiple Sclerosis respiratory issues, such as making sure you sit upright as much as possible, that you have a properly supportive chair and bed and, of course, giving up smoking!
