MS breathing problems

Question

I have posted about this before. But wanted to see if I could get more info to better my understanding.

As far as MS casuing breathing problems.

this would most likey be in late stage?

what tests would confirm the breathing problem.

I read some other posts on here, saying that pulmonary test dont show it some times.

But would sprinomety show, exhaling force, which your musles do?

and what about the pulse oximetere?

msmomx2 · Answer

I have MS and I too have had breathing trouble. once last year for a few weeks and once this fall. I have to say it is a bit scary to not feel like you are getting a full breath. I did do a pulminary function test last year and I aced it. I now know from my nuro and other docs (as well as a fantastic massage) that it seems to be related to stress and muscle tension in my case. If I can get the muscles to relax then I feel better (which is not always easy) Yoga daily/every other day has helped a lot along with other stretches the PT lady gave me.

jordison · Answer

hi, just wonted to say that I have MS, i was speeking to ms nurse yesterday about breathing by mouth instead of nose at night, she suggested i went to the sleep clinic.  today i put in the question why do i sigh so much, and your response came up. interesting as i have MS

Sarahsmom46 · Answer

...I meant to say neuromuscular "disorder" not doctor.  :)

Sarahsmom46 · Answer

I brought this question up not too long ago and although I did get a few responses it left me with more questions.  

MS per se doesn't cause breathing problems, according to my MS doctor, but it can affect the diaphram muscle making it weaker than normal.  A weak diaphram can cause breathing problems which can be seen on pulmonary function tests.  I'm not sure if spirometry will give a completely accurate picture, but it can show the doctor if there might be an issue if the numbers are on the low end.

I'm not sure if breathing problems are signs of late-stage MS exclusively.  I have problems and I was only diagnosed 5 months ago with MS.  

Are you having problems with breathing?  

If you are, then I would highly recommend seeing a lung specialist. My lung doctor told me that she see's many MS patients with breathing problems.  My doctor told me that when she listens to the lungs and they sound fairly normal, then she looks at the how much effort is taken to breath.  We use different muscles when we are having problems getting our breath and she says that is a good sign to her that it is related to the MS or another concurrent neuromuscular doctor.  

I hope this was helpful.  

Julie