Advanced Care Program: Paralysis

Respiratory Complications

Respiratory complications and infection can occur after paralysis, especially when it involves the upper thorax. When the chest wall muscles, (intercostals), and abdominal (stomach) muscles are paralyzed, there is an increased risk for pneumonia.

Steps to help prevent pneumonia include:

• Avoid air pollutants - car exhausts, smoke, dusts, etc.
• Change positions from side to side
• Do deep breathing exercises on a regular basis
• Get an annual influenza (FLU) shot to help avoid possible complications associated with the Flu
• If you are over the age of 65, get a pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccine shot
• If you are under the age of 65, get a pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccine shot once every 5 years to protect you against many of the bacteria that might cause pneumonia
• If you develop a cold or sore throat increase your deep breathing exercises and add percussion (use of clapped hands on your chest and back to help with drainage) and also use gravity to assist with drainage
• If you experience drainage, put you head and chest down to allow the secretions to drain and be expelled by coughing
• If you have difficulty coughing on your own, ask someone to assist you by pushing over your abdomen at the same time you cough
• Quit smoking if you smoke
• Take warm baths or showers to help liquefy your secretions
• Use an abdominal binder to assist in air exchange within your lungs - ask your doctor to determine if this product might help you

If you have a fever and have symptoms of a respiratory tract infection, take it seriously. Contact your doctor immediately. Do not wait to seek treatment. Early treatment may avoid serious complications and expensive hospitalizations.

Paralysis Topics

Recognizing and Preventing Autonomic Dysreflexia
Recognizing and Preventing Pressure Sores
Recognizing and Preventing Urinary Tract Infections
Skin Care
Osteoporosis and Fractures
Spasticity
Bowel Management
Respiratory Complications
Smoking and Paralysis
Male Sexuality
The Importance of Range of Motion Exercises
Female Sexuality
Nutrition & Spinal Cord Injury
Wheelchair Cushion Maintenance
Latex Allergies