Respiratory Disorders

Physiotherapy for Respiratory Disorders

Respiratory disorders affect the lungs and air passages. Physiotherapists offer assessment, treatment and advice on respiratory conditions including asthma, cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis.

Asthma

Asthma is a common problem for infants and children. It is also called ‘Reactive Airway Disease’. People with asthma have sensitive airways which become inflamed and produce more mucus. The muscles surrounding the airways (bronchial tubes) contract excessively narrowing the air passages (bronchoconstriction). Common symptoms of asthma include;

• Recurrent episodes of coughing.
• Wheezing.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Shortness of breath.
• Rapid and/or noisy breathing.

With the appropriate management including physiotherapy most children’s asthma can be kept under control.

Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic Fibrosis (C.F.) is a condition where the glands in the body produce abnormally thick, sticky mucus and the sweat glands produce excess salt. The two main areas of the body involved are the lungs and the pancreas. The increased production of mucus causes most of the problems seen in C.F. The lung problems of C.F. are caused by thick, sticky mucus, which makes them more susceptible to infection and damage. Much of this damage can be prevented through adequate treatment of infections. Physiotherapy and medication help to keep the lungs clear of the mucus.

Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis can develop at any age, but the process often begins in early childhood. It is an irreversible widening (dilation) of portions of the airways (bronchi) resulting in damage to the airway wall. The most common cause is severe or repeated respiratory infections. Physiotherapy is commonly used to treat bronchiectasis as it helps to keep airways clear and rid the lungs of mucus.