Respiratory Illness

Children with cerebral palsy may be at risk for particular respiratory problems including ear infections, sore throats, sinus problems, influenza and asthma. Many children do not have the motor coordination or muscle strength to cough adequately and clear congestion in the upper airway. In addition, mucus and bacteria may enter the lungs during the course of a common cold or sinus infection resulting in a respiratory illness.

Due to spasticity or low muscle tone, children with cerebral palsy may have difficulty swallowing, leading to pneumonia. The more severe the cerebral palsy, the more likely this complication can occur. Aspiration (taking foreign matter such as vomit into the lungs when breathing or inhaling) may also occur during a seizure.

Chronic lung disease can occur when asthma or recurrent infections resulting in aspiration are not adequately treated and monitored. It is important for parents and care providers to recognize the symptoms of upper and lower respiratory infections, seek early treatment and understand the care of these conditions. Even with appropriate primary care some children with CP will need the service of a specialist. Any infection accompanied by the following symptoms should be evaluated promptly by the child's physician:

fever
cough
rapid breathing
increased mucus production
labored breathing
pain
vomiting