Symptoms of complaints

Among the symptoms that can occur due to irritation of the phrenic nerve is hiccups, which in most cases can be considered harmless, but sometimes they can become pathological. The jerky contraction of the diaphragm during hiccups, especially if it lasts longer, can cause pain and be perceived by the person affected as extremely unpleasant. In addition, one can also swallow oneself with pleasure.

Other symptoms that can be attributed to the phrenic nerve are breathing difficulties caused by partial or complete paralysis of the diaphragm. Above all, inhalation is made more difficult because the contraction of the diaphragm supports precisely this process and gives the lungs room to unfold. Even when lying down, the abdominal organs can now exert more pressure on the lungs when the diaphragm is paralyzed and cause breathing difficulties. Those affected feel very short of breath, which is exacerbated by exertion. Since the phrenic nerve also carries sensory fibers, further symptoms can include pain in the structures supplied, such as the pericardium, pulmonary pleura or peritoneum, for example if these are inflamed or if increased pressure irritates the nerve.

Irritation of the N. phrenicus

Irritation of the phrenic nerve is often caused by increased pressure in the abdominal cavity, which acts on the diaphragm. This can occur, for example, after a laparoscopy, in which the examination instruments are inserted into the abdomen using a keyhole technique and the abdomen is inflated with gas for better vision. But also the hasty consumption of a sumptuous meal can lead to the symptoms.

The consequence of an irritation of the phrenic nerve is usually hiccups.Hiccups are caused by the sudden, reflex-like and involuntary contraction of the diaphragm, which leads to inhalation and the abrupt closure of the vocal folds, which terminates the process. Usually the hiccups occur several times in a row and can therefore last for some time. The cause is suspected to be an irritation of the phrenic nerve, which supplies the diaphragm with motor power.

The temporary irritation is classified as harmless. However, a chronic irritation due to illness must be clarified and can lead to serious complications. Hiccups caused by temporary irritation can be triggered, for example, by an increased distension of the stomach after food intake or by the consumption of spicy food.

Excitement or violent laughter can also cause hiccups, as the phrenic nerve can be irritated. If the nerve is irritated by a pathological process, such as an inflammation in the abdominal cavity or in the stomach and esophagus, hiccups can be chronic. Chronic hiccups are often associated with pain and distress for the person affected.