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Respiratory Problems Questions

Inquiries About Respiratory Illness

Recently, my wife (33) and I (35) paid a visit to my 99-year-old grandmother at her assisted living facility, accompanied by our close family members. Unfortunately, we discovered that there had been an outbreak of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in her community. Thankfully, my grandmother remains healthy; she has received her vaccinations and shows no signs of illness. Conversely, the rest of us haven't been as fortunate. My mother, wife, and sister contracted RSV but have since made a full recovery. About a week after my wife developed symptoms, I began to feel unwell. I have taken two tests for RSV, both of which returned negative results. Now I’m wondering, could I have contracted a different respiratory virus from someone who had RSV? I'm feeling much better now; my inquiry stems more from curiosity than concern. Thank you!

Sinus CongestionBronchitisAllergy & Immunology
Male • 25-34
2 weeks ago

Challenges with Azstarys ADHD Medication Approval by Cigna

Greetings everyone, I’m a 47-year-old non-smoker who has relied on a high dosage of Azstarys for the past three years. This medication has provided me with consistent stability, without the typical highs and lows associated with other treatments. I have never felt so in control of my condition. Unfortunately, after switching to Cigna for my insurance coverage, I encountered significant difficulties in securing my medication. Although my physician submitted the necessary pre-approval documentation, Cigna continues to deny my request. To make matters worse, my doctor has passed away unexpectedly, leaving me without access to my medication. Is there anyone who might recommend an alternative ADHD medication that offers similar steady results? I'm hesitant to transition to a new option that might bring back the fluctuations I’ve managed to escape with Azstarys. Additionally, does anyone have suggestions on how I could persuade Cigna to rethink their decision? I appreciate any guidance you can offer. Thank you!

Allergy & ImmunologyPulmonology
Male • 25-34
2 weeks ago

Concern Over Ear Infection After Starting Treatment

I recently experienced pain in my ear after a shower, likely worsened by frequent cleaning with a swab. After enduring two days of severe discomfort, I decided to consult an ENT specialist. During the visit, I was prescribed oral antibiotics, specifically amoxicillin, along with ear drops that contain olfaxin. Remarkably, after just one dose of the antibiotic and two applications of the ear drops, along with one pain reliever, I felt a remarkable decrease—approximately 70%—in my pain. However, complications arose yesterday while washing my hair; some water unfortunately entered my already affected ear. Despite using vaseline and cotton balls to block moisture, I felt unable to prevent it completely. I attempted to shake the water out but with no success. While I continue with my prescribed medication, I still feel fullness and itchiness in my ear. Concerned, I asked a family member to use a flashlight to inspect the area, which revealed a small boil filled with pus that had not been there before. I reached out to my ENT, who advised me to persist with the current medication. Nevertheless, I can’t shake off my anxiety regarding this new boil development. Additionally, I have an upcoming work trip this Sunday night, and I’m uncertain whether flying is advisable given my ear infection. Details: - Age: 33 - Gender: Female - Height: 5’2” - Weight: 70 kg - Duration of symptoms: 1 day - Affected area: Ear - Existing medical conditions: None - Medications currently taken: Amoxicillin, olfaxin ear drops, Aceclofenac (100 mg), Paracetamol (325 mg)

Sinus CongestionENTSore Throat
Male • 25-34
2 weeks ago

Understanding Causes of Bradypnea: Seeking Guidance

I have a complex medical background, including conditions like Chiari malformation, syringomyelia, hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS), bilateral thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS), tethered spinal cord, intracranial hypertension treated with a VP shunt, a spinal venous fistula, mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), dysautonomia, and cranial-cervical instability characterized by a fusion from the skull to the C4 vertebra. In the past, I had central sleep apnea linked to brain compression from excessive Chiari decompression surgery, which had not been an issue before. Fortunately, that was addressed with my spinal fusion. However, I still experience remarkably slow breathing rates, averaging between 8 to 11 breaths per minute. My oxygen levels appear stable, although post-surgery, they tend to drop further, necessitating supplementary oxygen. This pattern of bradypnea has lingered for several years, despite numerous adjustments to my medication regimen, including variations in opioid dosages. Additionally, I suffer from significant venous compression bilaterally across various positions due to thoracic outlet syndrome. I can't help but wonder whether this compression is impacting the phrenic nerve, contributing to my slow breathing rates. Despite the persistence of this issue, it has often been overlooked because my oxygen saturation levels are generally acceptable. I possess the results from peripheral venous blood gas assessments, although I'm uncertain of their implications: - pH: 7.36 (normal range: 7.32 - 7.43) - pO2: 18 mm Hg (normal range: 35 - 49) - pCO2: 49 mm Hg (normal range: 41 - 50) - HCO3: 28 mmol/L (normal range: 23 - 27) - Base Excess: 2.0 mmol/L (normal range: -3.0 - 3.0) - O2 Saturation: 25% (normal range: 60 - 80) - Lactate: 1.8 mmol/L (normal range: 0.6 - 2.0) I am 39 years old and my measurements are 171 cm in height and 88 kg in weight. I do not smoke or use drugs. My current medications include hydromorphone, ropivacaine, and clonidine administered intrathecally, alongside metformin, ozempic, Nebivolol, ketotifen, Targin, Dantrium, Zyrtec, and famotidine.

Shortness of BreathBronchitisPulmonology
Male • 25-34
2 weeks ago

Experiencing Breathing Issues During Tooth Brushing?

I'm in quite a predicament and could really use some insights. At 35 years old, I find that brushing my teeth triggers symptoms similar to asthma. Specifically, I experience a constriction in my throat that leads to noticeable wheezing. This reaction persists even when I change my toothbrush or toothpaste. I've ruled out skin irritations or rashes, as my throat simply feels tight without any visible signs. Additionally, allergy tests, including a skin prick test, yielded no known allergens. I do have a background of childhood asthma that seemed to dissipate with age. Is it possible that my toothbrush is releasing particles that irritate my airway as I breathe? The uncertainty is driving me to distraction, as I'm attempting to determine whether this could be an allergy or some other underlying issue. Any suggestions or theories would be greatly appreciated!

AsthmaWheezingAllergy & Immunology
Male • 25-34
2 weeks ago

Concern About Unexpected Bedwetting at 34

Hello, I’m seeking some guidance regarding a troubling incident. For the very first time in my adult life, I experienced bedwetting last night. Interestingly, I hadn’t consumed any alcohol nor was I under the influence of sleeping medications. I didn’t have any dreams related to needing to use the bathroom either. I was sleeping quite soundly when I woke up around 2:40 AM, used the restroom, and urinated as expected. After that, I poured myself a glass of water, drinking only about half of it. I then woke up again at about 5:30 AM and discovered I was wet. At first, I didn’t fully comprehend what had occurred until I inspected further. This situation has left me somewhat anxious, particularly because I had previously emptied my bladder only three hours prior, and my fluid intake afterward was minimal. I’m a 34-year-old female and generally maintain good health, although I’ve been grappling with anxiety and intrusive thoughts, which have intensified recently. Approximately two months ago, I had a comprehensive blood test that yielded normal results aside from a slightly high cholesterol level. My lifestyle is not particularly active, and my diet isn’t the healthiest, but I do not smoke and have rarely consumed alcohol in my life. I’m uncertain about the level of concern this incident warrants. Any insights would be appreciated!

ENTAllergy & ImmunologyPulmonology
Male • 25-34
2 weeks ago

Seeking Guidance for Respiratory Concerns

Greetings, I am a 21-year-old woman with a background of asthma. Lately, I've been experiencing a severe, persistent cough accompanied by intensified asthma symptoms, particularly during the night and early hours of the day. I previously visited the emergency room where the physician conducted minimal examinations, relying mainly on a stethoscope, before prescribing a significant number of medications including nebulization, Cetakind 500 taken twice a day, Montek LC, and Reswas three times daily. Today, I consulted a specialist in asthma who performed a chest X-ray and various breathing tests. This doctor recommended that I discontinue all the previous medications. However, I've learned that halting Cetakind treatment before five days (I’m currently on day three) could be harmful, yet the specialist advised me to stop immediately. Is it safe to discontinue it this early? I was instructed to continue using my Lupihaler along with another prescribed medication. I experienced a brief mild fever that resulted in a sore throat, which then transitioned to just a lingering cough and asthma issues. I have copies of my X-ray, prescriptions, and test results. I’m unsure about sharing them here, but I would be happy to send them via private message if anyone is able to assist. The doctor mentioned that my concerns might be exacerbated by panic reactions.

AsthmaBronchitisPulmonology
Male • 25-34
2 weeks ago

Concerns Regarding Oxygen Saturation During Activity

Greetings, everyone. I am a 19-year-old female, and for several months now, I have been experiencing significant shortness of breath, especially when hiking uphill or climbing stairs. Even simple tasks like getting dressed or bending down have become challenging. Additionally, I have noticed pitting edema in both of my legs. My cardiologist is aware of my situation and is actively managing my care. Currently, I am on a regimen of 25 mg of torsemide along with 25 mEq of potassium. This treatment seemed effective initially, helping to alleviate the swelling in my legs, but last night, I encountered a troubling recurrence of severe swelling and exacerbated pitting edema. To check my concerns, I purchased a pulse oximeter, fearing that I might be overreacting, which I often worry about. When I measured my oxygen levels at rest, I recorded a normal reading of 97%. However, after laying flat on the sidewalk, the reading dropped to between 94% and 95%. When testing while walking uphill and up the stairs, my oxygen levels were alarmingly low, averaging in the low 80s. I captured images of the readings; the lowest I saw was 80%, but during the uphill trek, the values ranged mostly between 83% and 84%, occasionally reaching 86%. Notably, I struggled with severe breathlessness throughout the entire activity. Thankfully, after sitting down and resting for a few minutes, my readings returned to 96%. I usually maintain an active lifestyle, walking around 4 to 5 miles each day, so these low readings are atypical for me. I’m uncertain whether I should take immediate action since my levels returned to normal after resting. I do have a chest CT scan scheduled for next week. I've reached out to my doctor concerning the worsening leg condition, but I haven’t discussed the oxygen saturation readings, as I compiled those measurements afterward. Should I contact her again about my oxygen levels? Is there anything else I should consider doing before my CT scan? I appreciate any guidance!

Shortness of BreathENTPulmonology
Male • 25-34
2 weeks ago

Respiratory Challenges and Breathing Trouble

Age: 15 | Weight: 65 kg (140 lbs) For some time now, I have been grappling with respiratory issues. This all began roughly nine months ago, manifesting as intermittent coughing. Initially, I dismissed it as a mild cold, but it soon escalated to include lung discomfort, primarily felt in my back and sometimes my chest. The pain seems more pronounced on my right side and has been steadily worsening. By August and September, even mundane activities such as running brought on excruciating pain and exacerbated my breathing difficulties. After my father provided me with antibiotics, I experienced a brief improvement. However, within a fortnight, my symptoms reverted to their previous state. Despite some minor recovery over the subsequent months, the pain has intensified and has become a near-daily occurrence. It varies from sharp sensations, akin to tiny needles in my lungs, to overwhelming discomfort that triggers a gag reflex when I cough. Additionally, I experience chest pain after laughing or prolonged talking, and recently, I've been feeling dizzy as well. **Medical Background:** I do not smoke or use vape products. I've made multiple visits to a general practitioner, although, frankly, I’ve found their assistance to be ineffective. After a blood test, they reassured me about my results but failed to provide specifics, especially concerning my history of low iron levels. I have undergone two chest X-rays; during the first one, they assured me everything appeared normal without revealing any details. However, during an orthopedic consultation over a month ago, when I inquired about some suspicious white spots on the X-ray results, I was told it was merely a slight calcification, which I felt was an understatement. My experience with the healthcare system has been frustrating, and I am eager to hear opinions regarding my chest X-ray results. They haven’t requested a sputum sample nor conducted further investigations, such as a back X-ray, and they've hastily suggested asthma treatment despite my steroid inhaler providing little relief. In less than a year, my condition has deteriorated significantly, and I am apprehensive about what lies ahead. Thank you for any insights you can offer.

CoughShortness of BreathAsthma
Male • 25-34
2 weeks ago

Understanding Chest Infections

Standing at 5 feet 6 inches and weighing 13 stone at the age of 24, I've recently been facing concerns regarding my respiratory health. Medical professionals, including paramedics and doctors, repeatedly assure me that even in the grip of a chest infection, I will not stop breathing, regardless of how severe my breathlessness feels. Is this truly accurate? The discomfort accompanying this sensation is quite distressing, to say the least.

Shortness of BreathWheezingPneumonia
Male • 25-34
2 weeks ago
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