Shortness of breath in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) can be due to several factors, including:
- Muscle Weakness: Weakness in the chest and abdominal muscles can make breathing more difficult
- Autonomic Nervous System Issues: Problems with the autonomic nervous system, which controls respiratory function, can also Show Full Answer
Shortness of breath in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) can be due to several factors, including:
- Muscle Weakness: Weakness in the chest and abdominal muscles can make breathing more difficult.
- Autonomic Nervous System Issues: Problems with the autonomic nervous system, which controls respiratory function, can also cause breathing difficulties.
- Medications: Certain medications used in MS, such as muscle relaxants, tranquilizers, and opioid pain relievers, can depress breathing.
To manage shortness of breath, consider the following:
- Consult Your Doctor: Always discuss breathing difficulties with your primary care provider or neurologist.
- Respiratory Therapy: This may include exercises to strengthen breathing muscles.
- Medications: Inhalers or nebulizers may be prescribed to help open airways.
- Team Approach: A pulmonologist, speech and language therapist, physiotherapist, and rehabilitation specialist can work together to create a comprehensive care plan.
Anxiety can also contribute to shortness of breath, so addressing anxiety through appropriate therapies or medications may be beneficial. If you are on Ocrevus (Ocrelizumab), it's important to monitor for any respiratory side effects and report them to your healthcare provider.
May 23, 2024
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