What are the effects on people with pectus carinatum?

　　Pectus carinatum, also known as pigeon chest, generally affects individuals in terms of body morphology, respiratory function, and psychological well-being. The specific impacts are as follows:

　　1. Body Morphology

　　Pectus carinatum is a common sternal deformity that typically presents in two forms. One type is limited to the midline of the sternum, which protrudes forward with a depression on both sides of the sternum, potentially compressing the heart chambers and reducing thoracic cavity volume. The other type involves the entire sternum and costal cartilage arch projecting forward, resulting in asymmetric deformity. Both types affect body morphology.

　　2. Respiratory Function

　　Individuals with pectus carinatum are often physically weak and experience delayed physical development. Some patients may have their hearts compressed due to chest deformity, leading to impaired respiratory function such as reduced breathing amplitude and chest tightness.

　　3. Psychological Well-being

　　Pectus carinatum causes chest wall deformity, and some patients may develop psychological issues due to their physical appearance, such as emotional distress, commonly manifesting as anxiety and low self-esteem. Additionally, some patients may hunch their chests to conceal the physical abnormality, which could worsen the condition of pectus carinatum.

　　Besides the above, pectus carinatum may also lead to upper respiratory tract infections, bronchial asthma, and breathing difficulties. Individuals with pectus carinatum should seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to prevent adverse effects on health.