Concern Over Breathing Difficulty with Amoxicillin Treatment
I am a 34-year-old woman weighing 108kg, and my blood pressure is stable with glucose levels slightly on the low end. I also identify as neurodiverse. Last week, after attending a baby group on Wednesday, my two-year-old fell ill, which is typical since we alternate weeks at the group to allow for recovery. Soon after, I too began to feel unwell. Initially, I experienced common cold symptoms, leading to a strong desire for a hot beverage and a break from my activities. Subsequently, I started suffering from muscle discomfort and cramping, particularly in my legs, coupled with chest and abdominal pain. There were occasions when I was unable to take ibuprofen or paracetamol, and my fever escalated to a point where I was violently shaking, feeling as though I were overheating, and experiencing intense discomfort in my lungs and extremities. By Wednesday morning, I believed it was necessary to seek help, so I scheduled an appointment with a pharmacist authorized to manage minor health issues in Wales. Although I initially suspected I had the flu, I felt it prudent to seek professional guidance. Thankfully, my fever subsided shortly before my appointment, and by the time I saw the pharmacist, I was sweating profusely, prompting a normal temperature reading. Upon examination, he diagnosed me with a chest infection, which aligned with my symptoms—a relief, given my anxiety from a past sepsis experience in the hospital. However, after a day of antibiotic treatment, my fever returned briefly before subsiding once more. I currently have no appetite and have not consumed a proper meal since Sunday, managing only small bites here and there for nourishment. My main concern continues to be my breathing; while I am not experiencing congestion, I am coughing more frequently without productive results, and the effort sometimes leads to vomiting. Eating even a couple of bites makes it challenging to breathe, causing a burning sensation in my throat that feels restrictive. Last night, I awoke feeling lightheaded and gasping for air, as if I had been holding my breath, which took an eternity to rectify. I frequently experience sensation of dizziness, particularly with even slight physical activity like climbing stairs or lifting my toddler. The NHS advises being vigilant for symptoms such as bluish lips, which I do not exhibit. I am uncertain if my situation qualifies as “difficulty breathing” since I am technically able to breathe—though it’s not particularly painful. Taking deep breaths is a challenge; I feel as if the depth of my inhalations is limited, leading to moments of panic during coughing fits when I realize my respiratory space feels restricted. I find myself having to consciously relax and take shallow breaths until the dizziness resolves. Although I have been coughing for several days, my muscles do not feel sore, indicating that the cough is not excessively severe. With just one day of amoxicillin left, I'm hopeful for significant improvement soon, especially with my return to work scheduled for Monday. This will be the earliest I can receive further medical assistance without involving A&E. I wonder if my ongoing chest discomfort can be attributed solely to the infection, or if I should seek medical advice before Monday, even if it means reaching out to the A&E department. I am confused about the criteria for "difficulty breathing"—is it a matter of concern only when I start turning blue? As long as I remain stationary and minimize conversation or movement, my breathing feels manageable and does not strike me as an A&E emergency, though last night’s panic was unsettling.
Answers (1)
3/22/2025, 4:00:52 PM
OpenHealth AI
Your concerns about breathing difficulties while on amoxicillin for a chest infection are valid, especially given your history of anxiety related to severe illness. Let's break down the key aspects of your situation and provide you with clear next steps.
Main Points
- Breathing Difficulties: You are experiencing challenges with breathing that may be caused by the chest infection.
- Chest Discomfort: This may be related to the infection, but persistent symptoms warrant careful attention.
- Need for Clarity: Understanding when to seek help regarding breathing symptoms is essential for your peace of mind.
Explanation
The feeling of restricted breathing you describe is common during respiratory infections. The combination of coughing, chest discomfort, and decreased appetite can be quite distressing, especially when you also experience dizziness and lightheadedness. It’s important to recognize that "difficulty breathing" doesn’t only refer to the inability to breathe at all—it can also encompass feeling short of breath or experiencing discomfort while breathing.
While bluish lips are a sign of severe distress, there are other indicators that suggest it might be time to seek medical help. These include:
- Increased difficulty breathing, especially if it worsens.
- Persistent chest pain or discomfort.
- Severe dizziness or lightheadedness that interferes with daily activities.
Next Steps
- Monitor Symptoms: Continue to watch for any worsening of your symptoms. Keep a close eye on your breathing, especially after exertion or during coughing fits.
- Hydration: Stay well-hydrated, even if your appetite is limited. Sip on water, herbal teas, or clear soups to help soothe your throat and keep your airways moist.
- Rest: Prioritize rest to allow your body to recover. Minimize any physical activities that might strain your breathing.
- Breathing Techniques: Practice gentle breathing exercises. Try to take controlled, shallow breaths to avoid triggering panic and dizziness. If you feel wheezing or tightness, pursed lip breathing can help (breathe in through your nose and out through pursed lips).
- Contact Resources: If your symptoms worsen or you feel very uncomfortable before your follow-up on Monday, it may be wise to reach out to your pharmacist or a healthcare provider sooner rather than later. Do not hesitate to seek emergency care if you feel your breathing has become perilously out of control, even without the bluish lips.
Remember, your comfort and health are paramount. Listening to your body and seeking timely support is crucial. Stay calm and know that it’s okay to reach out for help if you need it.
Related 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?
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.
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
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!
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.