Phrenic Nerve Diaphragm Paralysis

Phrenic Nerve Diaphragm Paralysis is a condition in which the phrenic nerve stops functioning, resulting in an inability to contract the diaphragm.

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Phrenic Nerve Care

This can result in labored breathing and reduced function of the affected side of the body. In some cases, it may even lead to complete paralysis. Fortunately, there are treatments available for Phrenic Nerve Diaphragm Paralysis and Atlas Institute Peripheral Nerve Care provides the best care possible for those suffering from this condition.

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What is Phrenic Nerve Diaphragm Paralysis?

Phrenic nerve diaphragm paralysis occurs when the phrenic nerve is damaged or stops functioning properly. This nerve runs from your brain and neck down through your chest and into one side of your diaphragm – a large muscle that separates the lungs from digestive organs and helps you breathe by expanding and contracting as you inhale and exhale. When the phrenic nerve only partially functions, it can cause labored breathing on just one side of the body – a condition known as unilateral phrenic nerve paralysis. Complete paralysis on both sides (bilateral) can also occur if both phrenic nerves are affected.

What are the Common Causes of Phrenic Nerve Diaphragm Paralysis?

The most common cause of Phrenic Nerve Diaphragm Paralysis is damage to either or both phrenic nerves due to trauma and disease. A high cervical spine injury can result in bilateral phrenic nerve paralysis that won’t respond to a diaphragmatic pacer. In these cases, patients can get nerve transfers to restore innervation to the diaphragm and potentially eliminate the need for full-time mechanical ventilation. Other causes of phrenic nerve diaphragm paralysis are tumors pressing against the phrenic nerves or viral infections such as Ramsay Hunt Syndrome. Furthermore, certain medications can lead to this type of paralysis, including aminoglycosides (an antibiotic) or antipsychotic drugs used for treating schizophrenia and other mental disorders.

Signs of Phrenic Nerve Diaphragm Paralysis

The primary symptom of this condition is difficulty breathing due to weak respiratory muscles on one side causing uneven breathing patterns during inhalation/exhalation cycles. Other signs may include fatigue, coughing fits, chest pain when lying down flat due to air accumulating in the chest cavity instead of going into the lung sacs, and fever (in case of underlying infection).

How is Phrenic Nerve Damage Treated?

Treatment of phrenic nerve damage paralysis is determined by a variety of factors, such as the degree and location of paralysis, whether it is caused by trauma or disease, and whether an infection is present. In general, medications such as cortisone injections or oral medications may be used to treat the condition. Physical therapy may also be beneficial for those with milder forms of paralysis. Surgery may be necessary for more severe cases, especially if any underlying structures have been affected due to diabetes-related neuropathy or soft tissue involvement leading up to mechanical obstruction. Surgery can also be used when malignant tumors have been identified that must be removed.

When is Surgery the Best Option for Phrenic Nerve Damage?

Treatment of phrenic nerve diaphragm paralysis is determined by a variety of factors, such as the degree and location of paralysis, whether it is caused by trauma or disease, and whether an infection is present. In general, medications such as cortisone injections or oral medications may be used to treat the condition.

Physical therapy may also be beneficial for those with milder forms of paralysis. Surgery may be necessary for more severe cases, especially if any underlying structures have been affected due to diabetes-related neuropathy or soft tissue involvement leading up to mechanical obstruction. Surgery can also be used when malignant tumors have been identified that must be removed.

Why Choose Atlas Institute Peripheral Nerve Care for Phrenic Nerve Damage?

At Atlas Institute Peripheral Nerve Care, our goal is to give you the best possible treatment for your phrenic nerve damage. Our state-of-the-art center is equipped with the latest diagnostic and therapeutic technology, allowing us to provide both surgical and non-surgical solutions for nerve pain or dysfunction. Our approach is down-to-earth and entirely focused on the technical aspects of surgery and treatment.

Experts in Nerve Conditions

When other medical providers do not understand the true significance of the pain or dysfunction caused by a phrenic nerve condition, they may not be able to provide an effective treatment plan. By taking a directed approach to treatment, we can make sure that any symptoms of pain, numbness, or loss of function can be significantly reduced.