The most important are effective coughing and regular deep breaths, discussed below. Drink plenty of fluids. Besides promoting general health, fluids keep lung secretions thin, aiding their clearance. Limit caffeine and alcohol intake, since these promote water loss through the urine. Practice good nutrition, which helps maintain general health and prevent fatigue.
Extra weight means more work for the whole body, including the ventilatory muscles.
Also, the extra work means more oxygen is needed, further taxing the system. Scoliosis, or curvature of the spine, is a common complication in neuromuscular disease. Scoliosis prevents full expansion of the chest cavity and can lead to stiffness and loss of breathing capacity. For those with trouble swallowing, a speech therapist can offer strategies to minimize the risk of aspiration and exercises to strengthen the swallowing muscles. Get flu and pneumonia vaccines, unless you have a vaccine allergy.