Breathing difficulties

In some neuromuscular conditions, progressive weakening of the muscles associated with breathing can be a problem.

Breathing difficulties can affect some individuals with neuromuscular disorders. Simple measures can be taken to reduce these problems, and in many situations it is possible to provide excellent control of symptoms.

Breathing problems include an increased susceptibility to chest infections, difficulty coughing and clearing phlegm, breathlessness, and under-breathing (known as hypoventilation) particularly during sleep.

Read the Making Breathing Easier factsheet

Ventilation - questions to ask your consultant

Research update on the benefits of ventilation in Duchenne muscular dystrophy