Paradoxical Respiration

Overview

• Normally, the abdomen moves outward on inspiration and inward on expiration.
• Paradoxical movement of the abdomen - inward on inspiration and outward on expiration - is suggestive of diaphragmatic paralysis or fatigue.

• • Causes of Paradoxical Respiration

  • Diaphragmatic paralysis - unilateral or bilateral
  • Fatigue - respiratory failure, neuromuscular disease