Signs
 

Paradoxical Respiration

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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
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