Can neurological problems cause breathing problems?
- Written by: Department of Neurosurgery and Neurology
- Published: March 31, 2021
- 4 min Read

Neurological problems can cause breathing disorders. There are several neurologic diseases that can eventually progress to impaired pulmonary function. However, the most common ones include Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis. In the majority of the cases, it is the breathing complication that worsens the condition or even leads to death.
Symptoms of breathing complication in Parkinson disease
There are various types of Parkinson’s disease. However, respiratory issues are more prevalent in the ones related to autonomic dysfunction. It is mainly because the affected regions in the brain are near to the areas that regulate central respiration. Some of the symptoms are –
- Central apnea
- Central hypoventilation
- Abnormal breathing
- Cheyne-Stroke patterns
- Apneustic breathing
- Cluster breathing
Signs of respiratory disorder in multiple sclerosis
Another neurological disease that causes pulmonary troubles is multiple sclerosis. In most cases, the symptoms are dependent on the lesions which are affected. The symptoms include –
- Diaphragmatic paralysis
- Autonomic respiration
- Apneustic breathing
- Paroxysmal hyperventilation
- Neurogenic edema
How can neurological problems cause breathing complications?
When you are suffering from a neurologic disorder, it takes time for the breathing issues to manifest. Often, you can observe it at a later stage. In most cases, it can be triggered due to infection or a fever. As a result, the ventilatory demands of the body increases, and the respiratory muscles fail to perform efficiently.
When the breathing impairment starts, the brain tries to adapt to it. It thus increases the output of the central respiratory systems and ensures that the balance of carbon dioxide and oxygen is maintained. But, in doing so, the patients start to breathe faster.
But, as the disease spreads, hypoventilation occurs. It is an adaptive response of the body to avoid fatigue. There are many other patterns that can enhance breathing troubles. For instance – damaged airway clearance and decreased vital capacity.
Symptoms that can indicate pulmonary issues
There are several symptoms that can give an indication that you are having breathing difficulties. If you know about it, then you can take the necessary action. Check out some of the signs listed here.
- Onset of orthopnea
- Absence of snoring
- Feeling unenergized after waking up
- Difficulties in sleeping
- Headaches in the morning
If you suffer from any of these symptoms, it is best to get medical help. Only correct evaluation and diagnosis can assist in the treatment.
Other symptoms associated with neurological disorders
There are other symptoms that can occur at the onset of different neurological problems. Take a look at some of them.
- Seizures
- Paralysis (complete or partial)
- Reduced sense of alert
- Weakness in the muscles
- Decreased cognitive abilities
- Numbness
- Sudden mood swings
- Unexpected outbursts
- Depression
Apart from these, the various disorders also have some particular symptoms. If you know about them, then you can at least identify them. Moreover, you will also know when to call for help.
There is a link between neurological disorders and breathing troubles. And, sometimes, the pulmonary impairment can even lead to death. If you face breathing issues, then the best move is o get medical assistance immediately. Moreover, if you already have a neurologic problem, do not delay the consultation.
Related Read
What are the most common neurological disorders?
Neurological disorders include diseases of the nerves, spine, and brain. Millions of people are affected each year, with thousands dealing with lethal consequences. These diseases not only affect the person who is suffering but also the people around them.
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Department of Neurosurgery and Neurology
Vishwaraj Hospital’s Neurosciences department, with its 2 branches, Neurosurgery and Neurology are highly competent to diagnose, operate, treat and care for all patients requiring urgent and excellent care. With our senior surgeons with more than 15 years of surgical experience to their credit have performed brain decompression surgeries with great precision in our fully equipped operation theatres.
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