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Real members of MyParkinsonsTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Shortness Of Breath & Chest Pains

A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question đź’­
Thorne Bay, AK

Hello. Have been diagnosed with PD about seven yrs ago. Something has recently become a problem for me. I have chect pains like those associated with extreme shortness of breath and breathing becomes laborous. Have just returned home after heart examination in Seattle, They found no cause for this. Is this something othere here have experienced?

August 1, 2020
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A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Yes, when medication not working and during off periods I get short of breath, taking short and shallow breaths.
I have been asthmatic for 55 years but this feels completely different.
Also get chest pains when exercising hard. Had numerous ECG's but no heart problems.
Another symptom to put down to parky

August 28, 2020
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, and chest pains can be concerning symptoms for individuals with Parkinson's disease. Here are some key points from the knowledge base:

Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)
- Causes
- Medication wearing off or becoming less effective.
- Uncontrolled anxiety, which is common in Show Full Answer

Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, and chest pains can be concerning symptoms for individuals with Parkinson's disease. Here are some key points from the knowledge base:

Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)
- Causes:
- Medication wearing off or becoming less effective.
- Uncontrolled anxiety, which is common in Parkinson's and can cause physical responses like shallow breathing.
- Management:
- Adjusting medication dose or schedule.
- Treating anxiety through therapy, behavioral strategies, or anti-anxiety medication.

Chest Pains
- Potential Cause:
- Restrictive lung disease due to muscle stiffness from Parkinson's, which can restrict chest muscles and slow their movement.
- Symptoms:
- Tightness and compression in the chest, especially when lying down.
- Difficulty breathing and speaking more than a few words at a time.
- Management:
- Pulmonary function tests to diagnose.
- Short-term treatment with steroids.
- Long-term treatment with supplemental oxygen and inhaled steroids to prevent hypoxia.

Additional Notes
- Sleep Apnea:
- Parkinson's can affect airway muscles, leading to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which can cause abrupt awakenings with gasping and choking, dry mouth, and morning headaches.

Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options.

July 11
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

I have extreme shortness of breath when walking. I have COPD and had a sniff test last week. they found that my right side of my diaphragm is paralyzed and the left is partly paralyzed. Hope that is not your case

August 3, 2020

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