Mrs.

Two weeks ago I was Dx with costochondralitis of the right frontal chest wall. Today I had a SNIFF Test which showed no function of the right side of the diaphragm.  Is it possible that the phrenic nerve has become inflamed?  If so, will it repair itself and how long does it take?  And finally what is the chance of the inflammation moving to the left side of the diaphragm?
I am on oxygen 2-4 liters, depending on activity .
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[Abhijeet Deshmukh, MD]

Hello.

The right diaphragm function is reduced by the costochondritis, and not the phrenic nerve damage. The rib joints get irritated on the movement of the diaphragm. Hence that part of the diaphragm does not move. The inflammation . if part of a generalised disorder, can spread to the other side. But if it is due to an accident, it will stay on the right side only.

Regards