Recent global studies have shown that adults with CP are twice as likely to develop heart and lung disease than those without CP. There is more research currently being conducted into the quality of life, experience of ageing and perception of health for adults with CP.  

Adults with CP may experience spasticity (stiffness) or weakness in their breathing muscles, reduced mobility, weak muscles, spinal abnormalities and poor posture, making them more prone to respiratory issues, such as aspiration (food or drink going down the wrong way), upper respiratory infections and pneumonia.

Pneumonia, caused by a virus or bacteria, is a serious lung infection. It reduces the amount of oxygen able to reach your system due to the small airways in your lungs becoming clogged with mucus.

It is crucial that you seek medical advice early for any breathing issues, especially respiratory infections so that treatment can begin and prevent problems getting worse.

Types of health management can include:

• oxygen therapy, using devices such as nebulisers, inhalers or incentive spirometry (to produce slow deep breaths)
• breathing exercises, including learning to use the diaphragm to breathe, and expanding the ribs
• supporting the respiratory muscles, using various beathing devices
• exercise programs, such as swimming and gym work to strengthen muscles involved in breathing and coughing
• speech therapy, to help control breathing and speech
• medications, such as antibiotics for respiratory infections.

Having regular assessments of your lung capacity with your healthcare team, as well as updates on your treatment and exercise program from your physiotherapist and others, can help you manage your breathing, slow deterioration of respiratory function and prevent other issues from developing.

This support will help to preserve your health, employment, independence, mobility and general quality of life as you age.