Diaphragmatic paralysis history and symptoms

The majority of patients with unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis are asymptomatic. Exertional dyspnea and decreased exercise performance are common symtoms of unilateral diaphragmati paralysis. Less common symtoms of unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis include dyspnea at rest and orthopnea. Dyspnea in supine position and orthopnea are common symtoms of bilateral diphragmatic paralysis. Less common symtoms of bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis include daytime fatigue and confusion.

Patients with unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis may have a positive history of:^[1]

• Childhood poliomyelitis
• Cardiac surgery in left sided paralysis
• Chest irradiation
• Injury
• Irradiation of the neck or cervical spine

Patients with bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis may have a positive history of :

• Known neuromuscular disease

Common symtoms of unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis include:

• Usually asymptomatic at rest
• Exertional dyspnea
• Decreased exercise performance

• Orthopnea^[3]
• Dyspnea in supine position^[4]

Less common symptoms of unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis include:

• Dyspnea at rest in pateints with underlying lung disease
• Orthopnea^[5]
• Disordered breathing during rapid eye movement sleep

Less common symptoms of bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis include:^[6]

• Acute supine respiratory failure^[3]
• Daytime fatigue
• Morning headaches
• Confusion

                 

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