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Coughing and choking in motor neuron disease
S Hadjikoutis1, R Eccles, C M Wiles
1Department of Medicine (Neurology), University of Wales College of Medicine, Cardiff, UK. Hadjikoutissa@cf.ac.uk
Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry
|April 15, 2000
Summary
Coughing and choking are common in motor neuron disease (MND) patients, often linked to factors like bulbar signs and reduced lung function, but rarely lead to chest infections.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Swallowing Disorders
Background:
- Motor Neuron Disease (MND) can significantly impact respiratory and bulbar functions.
- Coughing and choking are common but understudied symptoms in MND patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency and severity of coughing and choking in MND.
- To identify factors associated with these episodes.
- To explore the link between coughing/choking and chest infections in MND.
Main Methods:
- 37 MND patients and 23 healthy volunteers were assessed.
- Questionnaires, diaries, and objective measures (peak cough flow, sound intensity) were used.
- Clinical symptoms, bulbar signs, swallowing, and respiratory function were evaluated.
Main Results:
- MND patients experienced significantly more frequent and severe coughing/choking than controls.
- Female sex, older age, abnormal speech, dysphagia, and low forced vital capacity (FVC) were associated with increased episodes.
- Smokers and patients with upper motor neuron bulbar signs had more severe, prolonged episodes.
Conclusions:
- Frequent coughing and choking are characteristic of MND but rarely result in chest infections.
- Upper motor neuron bulbar signs may contribute to dysphagia and reduced cough suppression, increasing episode risk.