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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Shortness Of Breath When Diagnosed With Frontotemporal Dementia?

My husband is 65 and was diagnosed with frontal temporal dementia almost 4 years ago. Recently, he transitioned to incontinence, cannot feed or bathe himself. He still walks - but very slowly. He needs assistance in getting up and down in chairs. In the last week, he has developed difficulty in swallowing - but can still eat soft foods orally. I am concerned about his shortness of breath (panting) that comes and goes. Is this brought on by phlegm that is not being cleared by weak or poor swallowing?
Fri, 7 Jun 2019
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello,

Patients that have difficulty swallowing are at risk of aspiration which means food going into the airways. This may cause cough and also pneumonia (lung infection).

Because he is having shortness of breath, it is important that he sees a doctor to rule out lung infection.

I hope this answers your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj, General & Family Physician
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What Causes Shortness Of Breath When Diagnosed With Frontotemporal Dementia?

Hello, Patients that have difficulty swallowing are at risk of aspiration which means food going into the airways. This may cause cough and also pneumonia (lung infection). Because he is having shortness of breath, it is important that he sees a doctor to rule out lung infection. I hope this answers your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Antoneta Zotaj, General & Family Physician