Experiencing Breathlessness and Chest Tightness for Four Days
I am a 25-year-old male runner with a VO2 max of 68. Around four days ago, I began taking cordyceps, and since then, I have been experiencing persistent shortness of breath, increased heart rate during my runs, and a sensation of tightness in my chest. I visited the hospital, where all tests came back normal; my oxygen saturation was at 99%, and my resting heart rate was 43. However, I am still struggling with breathlessness even when at rest, while walking, or while trying to run. This has significantly impacted my ability to train effectively. What could possibly be causing this? I do not have any history of asthma or cardiovascular issues, as I undergo routine tests every year prior to the running season. I could really use some advice, especially with upcoming races on the horizon.
Answers (1)
3/31/2025, 11:00:45 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re feeling quite concerned about your recent experience with breathlessness and chest tightness, especially as a dedicated runner. The persistence of these symptoms, even after normal tests, is understandably troubling. Let’s break down what might be happening and identify some actionable steps.
Main Points:
- Possible Causes: Your symptoms could arise from various factors, including anxiety, reactions to new supplements (like cordyceps), or even exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, despite your lack of a previous asthma diagnosis.
- Immediate Steps to Consider: Focus on monitoring your activities and symptoms, adjusting your training regimen, and practicing relaxation techniques.
Explanation:
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Cordyceps and Symptoms: As you've started taking cordyceps recently, it’s possible that your body is reacting to this new supplement, especially if you have increased your dosage or frequency. Some people can experience side effects like increased heart rate or breathlessness when starting new supplements.
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Anxiety: Sometimes, starting a new regimen or anticipating races can lead to performance anxiety, which may exacerbate physical symptoms like tightness in the chest and breathlessness.
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Exercise Changes: Given your VO2 max and training history, if your body is currently struggling even with light activities, it might indicate a temporary phase of adaptation or a less common issue affecting your airways.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of when the symptoms occur, their duration, and any related activities (like running intensity or emotional state). This information will be useful for understanding patterns.
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Adjust Training: Temporarily reduce the intensity of your workouts. Consider focusing on shorter, lower-intensity sessions until you feel more comfortable. This might help you gauge when breathlessness is most significant.
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Reassess Cordyceps Intake: If you recently started taking cordyceps, consider pausing it for a week to see if your symptoms improve. It could help determine if the supplement is contributing to your issues.
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Practice Relaxation Techniques: Incorporate techniques such as deep breathing exercises or yoga, which can help ease chest tightness and improve your overall sense of well-being.
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Hydrate and Nourish: Ensure you're adequately hydrated and consuming well-balanced meals to maintain your energy levels and support recovery.
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Follow-up with Monitoring: If symptoms persist or worsen over the next week despite adjustments, keep in mind that another evaluation might be necessary to explore further options.
It’s commendable that you pay close attention to your health and training. If you find that your situation doesn’t improve or you have new symptoms like increased heart rate with rest, it’s important to seek further medical evaluation. Stay positive and healthy!
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# 7-Month-Old Child with Abernethy Malformation - Exploring Treatment Options ## [7-Month-Old] Identified with Abernethy Malformation (Congenital Portosystemic Shunt) - Treatment Methods? **Age:** 7 months **Gender:** Female **Height:** Age-appropriate **Weight:** Currently 9 kg, was 2.8 kg at birth **Ethnicity:** Asian **Duration of Symptoms:** Present since birth **Location:** Uzbekistan **Pre-existing Health Issues:** Abernethy malformation (congenital portosystemic shunt), liver hemangiomas, chronic jaundice, anemia **Current Treatments:** Supportive management --- ## INITIAL PRESENTATION (June 2025 - July 2025) Our daughter arrived on **June 27, 2025**, presenting with: - Birth weight: **2.8 kg** - Marked jaundice (yellowing of skin and sclera) - Pale or clay-colored stools - **Bilirubin level: 245 μmol/L** (typically <20) An immediate ultrasound indicated multiple liver anomalies, initially thought to be hemangiomas. --- ## FIRST COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT (August 1, 2025 - 1 Month Old) ### Multislice Computed Tomography (MSCT) with 3-Phase Contrast (August 1, 2025): **RESULTS:** - 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