Why does Parkinson’s affect breathing?

Breathing
Written by Kristi Riker OTD, OTR/L

Why does Parkinson’s affect breathing?
Breathing problems may arise from changes in muscle control, posture, medications, and the way the brain regulates breathing. You may have noticed shortness of breathing, shaky breathing, or trouble feeling like you can get a full breath into your lungs. While there is much debate on the causes of respiratory dysfunction with PD, studies have found these to be the main issues that arise:

Main breathing problems with PD:
Restrictive breathing problems:

• trouble expanding the lungs fully
  
• feels like you cannot get a full breath
• caused by rigidity in chest wall muscles, diaphragm, and trunk, stooped posture
  

Upper airway obstruction

• PD can cause narrowing of the airway
  
• may notice ‘stridor’ - high pitches breathing sound
  

Dsypnea on exertion

• Shortness of breath with activity due to decreased endurance, weaker respiratory muscles, autonomic nervous system changes
  
• can be worsened by coexisting heart or lung problems
  

READ MORE

---