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Respiratory Problems Questions

16-Year-Old Dealing with Scoliosis and Breathing Issues: Seeking Advice

As a 16-year-old male, I’m currently coping with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), while also having been diagnosed with an S-shaped type of scoliosis. During my latest spinal evaluation in 2023, the findings revealed: - Thoracic curve: 25°, bending towards the right - Lumbar curve: 45°, bending towards the left For many years—long before my scoliosis diagnosis—I have been experiencing sporadic shortness of breath, approximately once a month or even less frequently. In June, I visited a clinic because I was suffering from a persistent cough following a viral infection. The attending physician conducted an X-ray and subsequently referred me to the emergency room after she suspected I might have a pleural effusion. Upon arriving at the ER, a CT scan was performed, revealing that the curvature of my spine was exerting pressure on my left lung. Initially, my oxygen saturation level was recorded at 88%. However, due to my shaky hands, the physician questioned the accuracy of this reading. Upon retaking the measurement, my oxygen saturation stabilized between 94% and 99%, and arterial blood gases indicated normal levels. Later on, I consulted a senior pulmonologist who recommended that I prioritize appointments with spine specialists rather than pulmonary care providers, and proceeded to order a spirometry assessment. I chose to delay this test due to frequent panic attacks, fearing these might negatively impact the results. However, I am now set to undergo the spirometry test in three weeks and would like to know if anyone else has experienced a comparable situation. I’m also feeling anxious about the potential for pulmonary hypertension. To provide further context, in April, I underwent two echocardiograms: - The first one, carried out by a junior doctor, indicated an estimated pulmonary artery pressure (EPASP) of 48 mmHg. - The second one, just two days later, was performed by a more experienced cardiologist and showed an EPASP of 30 mmHg alongside a tricuspid regurgitant velocity (TRV) of 2.64 m/s. Additionally, I have concerns about possibly having a pectus deformity, or conditions like Swyer-James-MacLeod syndrome, even though these have not been formally diagnosed. Given all of this, how concerning do my lung conditions appear? Can scoliosis by itself account for these symptoms? Moreover, does this situation escalate potential concerns regarding pectus deformity or Swyer-James-MacLeod syndrome?

Shortness of BreathBronchitisPulmonology
Male • 25-34
8 hours ago

Mother's Breathing Difficulties After Tree Dust Encounter on Cruise

My mother, a 53-year-old woman living in Australia without known health issues but with a 25-year history of heavy smoking, recently embarked on a cruise through the Pacific islands. During a guided tour on one of the islands, the tour guide struck a tree to convey traditional knowledge, which caused dust to billow into the air, and my mother inadvertently inhaled it. She described the sensation of the dust entering her throat and lungs, and shortly after, she developed severe cold-like symptoms and a cough that became so intense it made breathing difficult. Now, less than a week back from the trip, she's still battling a persistent and harsh cough. This evening, while attempting to vacuum, she mentioned having trouble breathing. Despite my concerns, her stubborn nature means she plans to wait a week before consulting a doctor—but I believe immediate action is necessary. Smoking approximately 15 cigarettes daily, she has struggled with a chronic smoker's cough for several years; however, the intensity of her current cough is unprecedented. During our phone conversation, she could not speak for more than 10 seconds without breaking into coughs. I worry that she might have contracted a respiratory infection or pneumonia. Her partner caught a milder version of her cold and has since recovered, leaving her condition looking increasingly severe. Regrettably, I cannot recall the name of the island or the specific tree involved in this incident. Given the alarming symptoms, does this seem indicative of a respiratory infection or pneumonia? For years, I have fretted over the possibilities of emphysema and lung cancer, but she is resistant to seeking medical help, fearing that it would lead to advice about quitting smoking—something she reacts to like a rebellious teenager. We are also trying to persuade her partner to urge her to visit a doctor as soon as possible.

CoughBronchitisPneumonia
Male • 25-34
13 hours ago

Considering Trazodone with 2nd Degree AV Block Mobitz Type I: A Personal Inquiry

Recently, I consulted with a psychiatrist on the recommendation of my therapist. During that visit, I was prescribed sertraline, starting at 25 mg for the first week before increasing to 50 mg, alongside trazodone at a similar dosage, to help with my sleeplessness. After undergoing an EKG, which revealed a first-degree AV block, further testing with a Holter monitor indicated a second-degree AV block. Two cardiologists advised me against using trazodone, leading me to solely take sertraline, which I have been on for 12 days without any adverse effects so far. Just two days prior, I had a follow-up appointment with my psychiatrist. To my surprise, she informed me that a lower dose of trazodone, specifically 25 mg, could be an option. I've been contemplating trying it given that the AV block isn't causing me any issues – I wouldn’t have known about it had it not been for the EKG – and also because melatonin isn’t consistently effective for me. I'm reaching out for advice since I haven't come across much information online about the safety of trazodone in conjunction with this type of AV block; most findings seem to focus on trazodone overdose. Thank you for your insights! (Please excuse any language errors; English is not my native tongue.)

ENTAllergy & ImmunologyPulmonology
Male • 25-34
19 hours ago

Seeking Relief: Ongoing Ear and Facial Discomfort After Two Weeks of Respiratory Illness

I am currently experiencing day 14 of a lingering respiratory illness, the origins of which remain unclear. It initially presented with relentless sneezing and a persistent runny nose, accompanied by a low-grade fever ranging from 99 to 100 degrees. Additionally, I have suffered from facial and sinus pain, conjunctivitis, intense headaches, fatigue, and general body aches. After visiting urgent care, I underwent tests for COVID-19, influenza types A and B, and RSV, all returning negative results. The doctor provided me with azelastine; however, he indicated that no further interventions were necessary at that time. While the sneezing and excessive nasal discharge subsided within a few days, I continue to endure headaches, congestion, generalized aches, and overwhelming fatigue at this two-week mark. Moreover, I've recently started experiencing pain in my left ear, with persistent sinus discomfort on that same side. Occasionally, I find myself running a fever of around 99 degrees. Unfortunately, I am unable to make an appointment with my primary care physician for another couple of weeks. I am contemplating whether another visit to urgent care would be worthwhile. Is there any potential relief available for my ear pain? Due to my allergy to aspirin and NSAIDs, I can only use Tylenol, which hasn't alleviated the discomfort. I suspect that I may simply need to ride out this troublesome illness, but could the symptoms indicate a bacterial infection that warrants an antibiotic treatment? Additional Information: - Age: 60 - Gender: Female - Height: 5'2" - Weight: 120 lbs - Ethnicity: White/Asian - Duration of symptoms: 14 days - Pain location: Left ear and left side of the face - Relevant medical history: MCAS, POTS, hEDS, one adrenal gland - Current medications: loratadine, famotidine, fluticasone, prescription potassium, metoprolol, montelukast, azelastine

Sinus CongestionBronchitisENT
Male • 25-34
1 day ago

Struggling with Frequent Respiratory Infections

Hello! Since 2020, I have been falling ill with one of four conditions: COVID-19, pneumonia, bronchitis, or tonsillitis, experiencing two bouts of pneumonia in just the last half year. Throughout my life, I have managed asthma while playing sports at a collegiate level, seldom relying on my inhaler. Generally, I consider myself to be in good health. At the age of 28, as a woman, I am quite active and not prone to frequent illness. However, since the wildfires in Los Angeles, I feel like I'm becoming ill more frequently. I consulted with a pulmonologist last December who suggested a CAT scan, which ultimately revealed no significant abnormalities. I also have routine lab work done every six months, and those results do not indicate any issues either. At this point, I find myself feeling increasingly frustrated and uncertain about what steps to take next. If anyone has thoughts, guidance, or recommendations, I would greatly appreciate your input!

BronchitisPneumoniaSore Throat
Male • 25-34
1 day ago

Seeking Help for Severe Duodenal Reflux Gastritis

Hello, f30. I'm reaching out for guidance on how to effectively communicate my condition to a gastroenterologist. I’m experiencing significant duodenal reflux, resulting in bile and fluid accumulating in my stomach. After only a few bites of food, my stomach fills with liquid rather than emptying properly, leading to prolonged retention that causes irritation. Over time, my digestive function has steadily declined. I’ve lost 13 kilograms and now find it challenging to consume even a single glass of water or two meals a day. While I don't experience nausea, I'm plagued by continuous liquid retention and a persistent dull burning sensation that is worsening, accompanied by a swallowing reflex that feels like water pooling in my throat. Previous symptoms, such as sporadic but intense feelings of hunger that were alleviated by eating, as well as brief periods of gnawing discomfort, were ignored during earlier consultations. I later realized these could indicate a mild form of erosive gastritis. Regrettably, the delay in proper diagnosis and the misleading advice from alternative healthcare providers have exacerbated my situation, something that is quite difficult to accept given that I may have been treatable at that time. In contrast, I’ve observed online communities where people suffering from gastritis report more severe experiences than I initially had, leading me to unknowingly consume foods that exacerbated my condition. Many healthcare professionals attribute my issues to anxiety or stress. Although I acknowledge that worrying about my health has not contributed positively to my situation, I have not seen a direct correlation between stress and physical symptoms. Moreover, I have no history of mental health disorders. I would have been open to a diagnosis of gastritis along with a stress-related component, but the biological factors have never been thoroughly explored. I felt as though I was on a path to recovery but, lacking essential knowledge, I inadvertently consumed inappropriate foods and drinks. My primary challenge lies in articulating the severity and progressive nature of my condition without coming off as self-diagnosing or exaggerating my symptoms. I wish to convey the abnormal and uncontrollable accumulation of liquid and its damaging effects, yet I am continually dismissed because I still consume food and my digestion appears normal. I seek an assessment of whether the fluids I'm retaining are from my stomach or the pancreas. A year ago, an endoscopy indicated a healthy stomach (only a month following an injury), yet my health has deteriorated since, a point that was previously dismissed. I now recognize this decline to be linked to more severe bile reflux, triggered by my injury, which has led to a gradual loss of stomach function. I am exploring the possibility of the DeMeester duodenal switch surgery, but it’s not feasible in my country. I hope to attain the necessary diagnosis to discuss this possibility. How can I express to a doctor that my issues are no longer merely psychological? I am unable to eat or drink the necessary amount for survival, and relying solely on a once-daily meal is not sustainable. How should I approach asking for further investigation or an open dialogue regarding future treatments, including the potential for surgery, when prior referrals have been declined without a full understanding of my situation? I appreciate any advice you might have regarding my language or strategy when addressing this. A candid discussion concerning the risks and benefits of surgery in my circumstance is crucial. Additionally, has my stomach lost neural function? Are the fluids I’m experiencing pancreatic, or are they unusual protective secretions from the stomach? It is vital for me to gain a realistic perspective on my future. I realize that whenever I suspect bile, the subsequent day becomes noticeably more challenging. Can surgery potentially reverse this damage, or is that a futile hope? Those are the types of questions I want to explore with a medical professional.

Sinus CongestionENTAllergy & Immunology
Male • 25-34
1 day ago

Breathing Difficulties

Hello everyone. I’m a 25-year-old male, standing at 1.80 meters and weighing 110 kilograms. I take 75 mg of Sertraline daily and have never been a smoker. Recently, I’ve experienced some unusual symptoms and seek your advice. Approximately a week and a half ago, I noticed what felt like a weakness or fatigue on the right side of my face. I didn’t think much of it at first. However, the following day, I began to sense a change in my breathing. Although I could still manage to take deeper breaths, I felt a peculiar pressure in my chest, particularly after eating. This made me more mindful of my breathing patterns. While this pressure subsided somewhat on its own, this morning I experienced something concerning. After using the restroom, I instinctively tried to take a deep breath, but my body seemed to cancel it, only allowing a small intake of air. When I forced myself to take a deeper breath, I was able to, but the volume of air I could inhale felt reduced compared to before. The difference is slight but noticeable. Additionally, after attempting several deep breaths in quick succession, I've developed a persistent urge to breathe deeply every few seconds, and this sensation has not abated for the last 20 to 30 minutes.

Shortness of BreathBronchitisPulmonology
Male • 25-34
1 day ago

Experiencing Pressure in My Teeth Again After Sinus Surgery

**Age:** 33 **Gender:** Female **Weight:** 150 lbs (Height: 5'4", Ethnicity: Caucasian) **Concern Area:** Upper right molars and nasal passages **Medical Background:** Underwent sinus surgery in August 2025 for silent sinus syndrome; no history of significant surgical procedures. **Current Medications:** 40mg of Prozac, 300mg of Wellbutrin, 10mg of Zyrtec, Aurovela contraceptive (all taken daily) **Additional Info:** Occasionally consume HHC and THC gummies, usually 125mg or 50mg if I haven’t taken them in a while. ***Rest assured, I avoided any use prior to my surgery.*** I mention this because my usage tends to cause nasal congestion. I have allergies to pet dander and live with two cats, which necessitates my daily Zyrtec intake; however, I frequently experience nasal congestion. The medication mainly helps with preventing runny nose and alleviating itchy/watery eyes. ---- Here’s some background! For a lengthy period, whenever I caught a cold or experienced significant nasal congestion, blowing my nose would result in intense pressure in my upper right molars, as if something was pushing against them. This was quite alarming. A dentist conducted a CT scan and discovered that my right maxillary sinus was completely obstructed. Consequently, I was referred to an ENT specialist who confirmed the diagnosis of silent sinus syndrome and subsequently performed the surgery. At my last follow-up, the ENT informed me that I should discontinue using the sinus rinse. However, I am currently facing similar sensations again. The same teeth are experiencing that troubling pressure right now, coinciding with a cold. Since August, despite having multiple colds, I had not felt this discomfort until now. ---- Should I reach out to the ENT once more? Is it better to wait until my upcoming dental appointment, which is in a week, to discuss it with them first? Would it be wise to purchase a new sinus rinse bottle (as they recommend replacement every three months) and start using it again? I would appreciate any advice. Thank you!

Sinus CongestionBronchitisENT
Male • 25-34
1 day ago

Postpartum Blood Pressure Concerns: Seeking Guidance

Hello, I’m reaching out for some guidance. I’m a 26-year-old female,14 days postpartum after a cesarean section, which went smoothly. Upon discharge, I was given voltaren suppositories (which I’ve used up) and Panado instead of Stilpane, as I requested a switch. I’ve recently stopped taking painkillers since my discomfort has minimized and I prefer to avoid unnecessary medication. Following the birth, I’ve experienced several issues: I have carpal tunnel syndrome in my right wrist, considerable pain in my left hip making it difficult to bear weight, and both legs have developed intensely itchy rashes, which my doctor has indicated are due to allergies. However, my primary concern is persistent high blood pressure. Just two days ago, it was recorded at 158 over 90. My obstetrician was worried about potential preeclampsia and had some blood tests done, which came back normal, allowing me to leave the office without concerns. Today, after checking at home, my reading was alarmingly high at 170 over 113. I’m quite apprehensive about going to the hospital for fear of being admitted and separated from my newborn, which is a thought I find distressing. I’m hoping for advice on this situation. I recognize this is a significant reading, but should I panic? Am I putting myself at serious risk by choosing to stay home? If I do go to the hospital, might they keep me there or would they likely just provide treatment through medication? I sincerely appreciate your understanding as I navigate this emotional time.

BronchitisAllergy & ImmunologyPulmonology
Male • 25-34
2 days ago

Concerns About My Brother's Nighttime Breathing Issues

My 26-year-old brother has been struggling with a cold for the last three weeks, but recently, he's been experiencing alarming episodes while sleeping. For the past week, he has repeatedly awoken during the night, gasping for breath for periods of about three to five minutes, as if his throat is nearly shut, leaving him on the brink of fainting. I've been sleeping in the adjacent room and each time it happens, it sends me into a panic. Just a little while ago, he woke up intensely gasping for air, taking an exhausting three minutes to recover his breathing. He seems to be trying to clear his throat of something stuck, but with no success. He has visited urgent care four times, and an x-ray of his lungs revealed no signs of pneumonia. While we suspect he may be dealing with a respiratory infection, the doctors have not confirmed this diagnosis. They have, however, provided him with an inhaler and prescribed medication to alleviate his cold symptoms. To give you some context, my brother is 6 feet tall and weighs 155 pounds, a drop from 165 just last week. He is of Caucasian descent, does not smoke cigarettes, is generally healthy and athletic, and only uses marijuana occasionally. He is not on any long-term medications, but he has received a prescription for his cold, which he has almost recovered from. Have any of you encountered similar symptoms before?

Shortness of BreathAsthmaBronchitis
Male • 25-34
2 days ago
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