Scoliosis, starting from a curve in the spine, can affect more than how a person stands or walks. It may also affect how well the lungs and heart work. While mild scoliosis may not cause major health concerns, moderate or severe scoliosis can lead to complications that impact breathing and circulation. Understanding how scoliosis develops and how it can affect the organs in the chest helps people make timely decisions for care
This article explains how scoliosis affects the lungs and heart over time, which symptoms to watch, and how expert care can help prevent serious problems. Whether you are looking for a spine doctor in Delhi or want to know more about your condition, this guide offers clear and helpful information.
What Is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves to the side. The curve can be in the shape of an “S” or a “C.” It usually appears in children or teenagers but adults can develop it too. The curve may be small or large. When the curve gets worse it may start to shift the ribs, lungs and even the heart.
The cause of scoliosis is not always known. Some cases are present at birth. Others develop during growth or due to nerve or muscle problems. Whatever the cause the effects can grow worse with time if left untreated
Scoliosis Symptoms That May Signal a Bigger Issue
In the early stages, scoliosis may show only a few signs. These signs may include uneven shoulders, a tilted waist, or one hip sitting higher. But as the curve gets worse, new signs can appear. These include:
- Shortness of breath
- Tiredness during light activity
- Chest tightness
- Irregular heartbeat
- Feeling dizzy often
How Scoliosis Affects the Lungs
The lungs need space to expand when you breathe in. The ribs help shape this space. When scoliosis causes the spine to curve, the ribs may twist and crowd the lungs. This makes breathing harder. You may notice you cannot take deep breaths. You may feel short of breath even when resting. In more serious cases, the lung function becomes very poor.
Over time, this reduced lung space can lead to shallow breathing and low oxygen in the blood. People may tire faster and struggle to stay active. This can affect the quality of life and health in major ways.
Lung issues from scoliosis are most common in those with large spinal curves or curves that affect the upper back. These scoliosis complications can be managed with early care, breathing therapy, and, when needed, spine surgery.
How Scoliosis Affects the Heart
The heart sits in the chest, close to the lungs. When the spine curves a lot, it may press the heart or twist the space around it. This pressure can make it harder for the heart to pump blood. It may also affect blood pressure and the heart’s rhythm.
When the heart has to work harder to move blood through a tight chest space, it becomes less efficient. This can lead to tiredness, dizziness, and swelling in the hands or feet. In some rare but serious cases, it may cause heart failure over time.
Heart problems from scoliosis are rare but real. A good scoliosis treatment in Delhi plan will include checking how the spine affects the chest organs, especially in people with severe curves.
Long-Term Scoliosis Complications on Health
If scoliosis is left untreated, the curve may worsen with age. In children, this can affect growth. In adults, it can lead to pain, loss of movement, and trouble doing daily tasks. But most important is the strain scoliosis puts on the lungs and heart.
Some of the long-term scoliosis complications include:
- Chronic shortness of breath
- Lung infections from poor air flow
- Low blood oxygen levels
- Heart strain or failure
- Reduced stamina and weakness
Scoliosis Treatment Options in Delhi to Prevent Complications
The goal of scoliosis care is to stop the curve from getting worse and to protect lung and heart health. Treatment depends on the size of the curve and how fast it’s growing.
1. Observation
Small curves may not need treatment. The doctor checks them often to see if they grow.
2. Bracing
In children or teens who are still growing, braces can stop the curve from getting worse.
3. Physical Therapy
Exercises help build strength and posture. This keeps the spine as straight as possible and supports lung function.
4. Surgical Treatment
When the curve is large or causes organ issues, surgery may be the best choice. Spine fusion surgery is often used. It straightens the spine and keeps it from curving more.
A good scoliosis specialist in Delhi will guide you through the safest and most effective options.
Scoliosis is more than a spine issue. Over time, it can affect how your lungs and heart work. Breathing trouble and chest pressure may be the first signs. If you notice these signs or know someone with scoliosis, getting expert help early can make a big difference.
At the Center for Brain and Spine, patients receive full care for spinal health, including tests for lung and heart function. Whether you need early diagnosis or advanced scoliosis treatment in Delhi, their team offers the latest solutions with care and skill.
If you are looking for trusted experts, visit Center for Brain and Spine to get started on the right path today.