phrenic nerve crush, which involves stopping the diaphragm from moving by damaging one of the two main nerves that lead to it.They can worsen during the day and with stress.ĭoctors do not know yet why it happens, but it can link with:Īlthough there is currently no standard treatment for diaphragmatic flutter, doctors may try the following: noninfectious inflammatory causes, such as sarcoidosis and amyloidosisĭiaphragmatic flutter, also called van Leeuwenhoek’s disease, is a rare condition that involves rhythmic, involuntary contractions of the diaphragm.Irritation, injury, or any inflammation of this nerve can trigger spasms in the diaphragm, as well as causing hiccups and breathing difficulties.Ī variety of factors or conditions can irritate the phrenic nerve, including: The phrenic nerve controls the movement of the diaphragm muscle. However, the paralysis will quickly pass in most cases, allowing the individual to breathe normally again. A person may panic or feel anxious if they cannot breathe, which can worsen symptoms. This can lead to significant difficulties in breathing. Temporary paralysisĪ sudden blow to the abdomen can temporarily paralyze the diaphragm. The most severe cases require immediate medical attention as they can injure the stomach, cause bleeding, or interfere with breathing. This can trigger a diaphragm spasm.Ī hernia can be mild or severe, and its severity will determine any additional symptoms. When a hiatal hernia occurs, part of the stomach pushes through an enlarged hiatal opening in the diaphragm. Hiatal hernias occur when age, injury, or recent surgery weakens the muscle tissue in the diaphragm. Other potential causes include: A hiatal herniaĪ hiatal hernia is when a part of the stomach moves up into the chest.

There are several possible causes of diaphragm spasms, including: spasm in other muscles involved in breathing.inflammation of the brain, known as encephalitis.Doctors do not know yet what causes diaphragm spasms.

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