HomeAnswersPulmonology (Asthma Doctors)unilateral diaphragmatic paralysisKindly suggest treatment for unilateral paralysis of the diaphragm.

How to manage unilateral paralysis of the diaphragm?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At July 7, 2016
Reviewed AtJuly 5, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

What health implications have been observed with a unilateral paralysis of the diaphragm? I have had a plication performed, but it failed and is back to the original issue. Currently, I am suffering from shortness of breath, chest pain with dizzy spells and increased heart rate. I am on Propranolol for the heart rate issue. Please help.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com. Unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis ismost commonly seen on the left side. The diaphragm is the most important muscle of ventilation. Unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis is usually well tolerated if there is no underlying lung or rib cage pathology. But, if severe, then it may cause dyspnea and hypoxemia and require treatment. The most common cause is nerve compression either trauma or some cancer or it may go unidentified called as idiopathic. Patients usually develop severe restrictive ventilatory impairment on spirometry. The vital capacity and total lung capacity frequently are below 50% of predicted for that patient. Lung capacity is reduced when the patient assumes the lying down position. The main treatment is directed at the treatment of the underlying etiologic cause and chest physiotherapy. But, in your case as you said, plication is already failed. The only way to increase its strength is by the inspiratory muscle strength and endurance training through physiotherapy. In some cases there is spontaneous recovery if the impairment is mild or if the etiology is removed. But, ultimately it is the endurance training that will help in the long run. Also, every attempt should be made to prevent any lung infection, which will become very difficult to treat in the future. The probable cause include traumatic or some cancer, causing nerve compression. Investigation to be done is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Scan and spirometry. the probable diagnosis may be unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Amol Kumar Wasudeorao Diwan
Dr. Amol Kumar Wasudeorao Diwan

Allergy Specialist

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