I have a dimpled chest, also known as a “funnel chest.” This significantly reduces life expectancy, I know since last year. Can anything be done about it? I am a healthy, slim 54 year old man.
a man, 54 years old
Joris Bartstra, journalist with medical diploma
The potential problems from a funnel chest are generally quite predictable. You may have pain complaints or a little less breathing capacity. Furthermore, at a very old age, you may be more likely to be struck by a fatal pneumonia. People whose chest is deformed to such an extent that the heart lies differently are also more prone to arrhythmias. But you would have noticed that already.
There are surgeries to correct a funnel breast, but the question is whether this is really necessary. If you have no other complaints, I wouldn’t worry about it. It is useful to compare your condition with that of your peers. More information can be found on the website of the patient association (www.spesweb.nl).
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