3. Respiratory Issues: The Invisible Struggle
Respiratory issues are a common yet often overlooked symptom of Niemann-Pick disease. The disease’s lipid metabolism disorder can affect lung tissue, leading to a range of respiratory problems.
On one end of the spectrum, individuals may experience recurrent respiratory infections. A child with Niemann-Pick disease may seem to catch colds more frequently than their peers, or a common cold may escalate into a severe infection like pneumonia. The compromised immune function characteristic of Niemann-Pick disease contributes to this increased susceptibility to infections.
On the other end of the spectrum, chronic lung disease can result from the progressive accumulation of lipids in the lungs. This can lead to tissue damage and diminished lung function over time. Symptoms can include a persistent cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath, which may become more noticeable during physical activity. (3)
