Understanding My Wheezing
**Profile Information:** - Age: 22 - Gender: Female - Height: 5'8" - Weight: 170 lbs **Current Medications:** - Vyvanse 10 mg - Lexapro 5 mg (two doses) - Blisovi Fe - Metformin ER 500 mg - Famotidine 40 mg (two doses) - Evening Primrose Oil 1300 mcg - Vitamin B12 500 mcg - Vitamin D3 25 mcg - Biotin 6000 mcg - Winlevi - Clindamycin Lotion 1% - Tretinoin Cream 0.025% **Health Conditions Documented:** - Anxiety - ADHD - Scoliosis - High cholesterol with hypertriglyceridemia - Endometriosis - High-functioning autism spectrum disorder - PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) - Pectus carinatum - Paroxysmal tachycardia - Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease Apologies for posting again tonight; I'm grappling with a lot at the moment. I feel trapped in my own head dealing with these ongoing health challenges and could really use someone to talk to. Last Sunday, I experienced severe throat discomfort, almost like I was swallowing shards of glass, accompanied by significant body aches, although I didn’t run a fever or exhibit additional symptoms. I didn't ascertain the type of infection, if there was one. Throughout the week, I've been coughing up dark green to yellow-green mucus, and the persistent cough has lingered for over a week now, disrupting my sleep. My chronic wheezing cough has also resurfaced, which is particularly distressing. Approximately two years ago, I began to struggle with a persistent cough following an illness. I pursued care from an ENT specialist and a pulmonologist a year later to get clarity on my condition. I noticed that my chronic cough was often provoked by physical activities such as exercising or even during intimate moments. Additionally, when I lean over excessively, I experience an unusual popping sensation from beneath my right ribcage, potentially related to my diaphragm. I will share previous chest x-rays for context, which illustrate the situation: The pulmonary function test indicated reduced exhalation capability, and albuterol treatment proved ineffective. I was diagnosed with sleep apnea, leading me to use a CPAP machine for a while. It was also revealed that my adenoids were obstructing over 75% of my throat. Consequently, the ENT prescribed famotidine to mitigate acid reflux issues. I underwent an adenoidectomy and septoplasty on January 3, 2025, with a smooth recovery. Currently, I encounter different symptoms based on my position when lying down: if I rest on my left side, the cough feels dry. However, on my right side, I struggle with intense wheezing and continuous coughing. Laying flat on my stomach exacerbates the problem significantly. Although the wheezing persisted after my surgery, it has returned with greater severity, significantly affecting my sleep. I’m exhausted from this endless coughing and deeply desire restful sleep. I wish to eliminate the wheezing that occurs during physical activity and sexual relations. What steps should I take next? Who should I consult for this issue? I’m seeking a lasting solution, as the severity of my cough often leads to gagging. I truly appreciate any guidance or support. Thank you.
Answers (1)
3/31/2025, 5:50:56 AM
OpenHealth AI
I understand you are feeling overwhelmed with your current health challenges, particularly regarding the ongoing cough and wheezing. It's important to address these symptoms, especially since they are impacting your sleep and daily life. Let’s focus on manageable steps to help you cope and potentially improve your symptoms.
Key Points:
- Persistent Cough and Wheezing: Your symptoms need careful consideration due to their chronic nature and their impact on your quality of life.
- Underlying Conditions: You have a complex medical history that includes respiratory issues that may contribute to your current symptoms.
- Immediate Actions: There are steps you can take to manage your symptoms and improve your comfort.
Explanation:
Your history of throat discomfort, coughing up green mucus, and wheezing suggests that there may be an underlying respiratory issue that’s not fully resolved. Factors like your previous ENT findings, difficulty with physical activity, and positional symptoms may indicate ongoing respiratory sensitivity or other complications. The change in symptoms based on your positioning could reflect issues with airflow or pressure in your chest, which might also be linked to your diaphragm.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a symptom diary, noting when the cough worsens or improves. Include details about activities, positions, and other potential triggers (like exposure to smoke, allergens, or respiratory irritants).
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Environmental Adjustments: Make your sleeping area as comfortable as possible:
- Use extra pillows to elevate your head and reduce coughing at night.
- Keep the bedroom humidified; using a humidifier can help with breathing comfort.
- Avoid allergens like dust and pet dander in your sleeping area.
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Self-Care Techniques:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to help thin mucus.
- Steam Inhalation: Inhale steam from a bowl of hot water (be careful with the heat) or take hot showers to soothe and open airways.
- Avoid Irritants: Stay away from smoke and strong odors which can trigger symptoms.
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Revisit Healthcare Providers: Given your history and the severity of your symptoms:
- Consult with your pulmonologist for an evaluation of your lung function and treatment options. Discuss the effectiveness of your medications, and consider asking about additional therapies (like inhalers specifically designed for asthma or other respiratory conditions).
- If symptoms worsen, consider seeing an allergist to rule out allergies or triggers that may exacerbate your wheezing and cough.
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Exercise Caution: While physical activity is essential for overall health, modify your routine to include light exercises that don’t trigger your symptoms. Consider low-impact activities, and discuss with your healthcare provider appropriate exercises that suit your condition.
Emotional Support:
It's entirely valid to feel frustrated with your ongoing health struggles. Connecting with support groups or speaking with a therapist can be beneficial in managing anxiety related to health concerns.
Please remember that feeling trapped in your health challenges is understandable, and seeking help shows strength. If symptoms worsen or new concerning symptoms arise, reach out to your healthcare provider promptly for further evaluation. You’re taking the right steps by seeking guidance. How can I assist you further?
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