Question
QUESTION: I had two cervical fusions 5 and 7 years ago. My spinal cord was flattened and on MRI's since it still is indented. Most of my neck is fused, except the top and bottom disks. I also had a brain aneurysm coiled 4 years ago.  Recently my asthma has really gotten worse, and my question is could this be partly from the neurological damage? I had a Respiratory Therapist tell me no, but I wonder if should see a neurologist.


ANSWER: Hi Peg-

Sounds like you've run the gamut, health-wise! I have asthma too, since I was a little kid, it's always worst this time of year.

I've never heard of that kind of nerve problem affecting asthma.  With my SCI, it gets worse- but that's because I don't have the diaphragm muscles to cough well. If you don't have any muscular limitations such as that, though, I'd guess it to be unrelated.

People with asthma sometimes 'grow out of it' (happily, I am slowly doing that)--others suddenly find themselves WITH asthma after not having it.  You might check with an allergist and see if your personal allergies account for the change in your breathing.

Good luck, hope you find some answers!
leslie

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I should have clarified. I do have muscle weakness, and that's why I'm wondering if the asthma's being aggravated by the muscle weakness.
Thanks, Peg

Answer
Ahh,I see.  If you're having muscle weakness as well I'd say see a neurologist.  Especially if the asthma began worsening at the same time as the muscle weakness began, but even if it's unrelated you should let someone look at you, see what all is happening and how to best deal with it.

I know how miserable it is to not be able to breathe, and to have muscle weakness too, for that matter- might as well try to mediate both is possible

thanks again, and do write back if you have further questions or would like clarification

leslie