Concerns About Breathing Issues
Hello everyone, I'm a 25-year-old woman with a history of Hashimoto's thyroiditis and a family background of COPD and lupus. In late May, I began to notice a significant shortness of breath. Given my hectic schedule, I initially attributed it to anxiety, which I felt manifested as a sort of air deprivation; however, I have never previously experienced any physical symptoms of anxiety. By early June, a persistent cough developed. Since that time, I have been dealing with this cough, along with occasional discomfort in my lungs, and the shortness of breath has continued. I've observed that the symptoms worsen in cold environments or when I encounter strong odors such as cleaning products. I visited urgent care, where the nurse practitioner reviewed my chest X-ray and indicated that everything appeared normal and that my lung sounds were clear. Unfortunately, my coughing has progressively intensified. In the past week, I've started to expectorate phlegm, and my nighttime coughing has become particularly troublesome. Last night, the cough was so severe that I woke up to pain in my chest. I am currently on a waiting list to see my primary care physician, with an appointment scheduled for the next week. However, I am uncertain if my situation is urgent enough to warrant a return to urgent care or a visit to the emergency room. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
Answers (1)
8/2/2025, 1:31:04 AM
OpenHealth AI
Main Points: You're experiencing ongoing respiratory symptoms, including shortness of breath, a worsening cough with phlegm, and chest pain at night, which are concerning. While you've had a normal chest X-ray, your symptoms require close monitoring.
Explanation: Your combination of symptoms—shortness of breath, persistent cough, expectoration of phlegm, and chest pain—can be indicative of various conditions, including bronchitis, asthma, or allergies, especially since you have noted that your symptoms worsen in cold environments or with strong odors. Given your history of Hashimoto's thyroiditis and family history of respiratory issues, it's essential to ensure these symptoms are thoroughly evaluated.
Since your chest X-ray is normal, it suggests that there are no glaring infections or major blockages in your lungs. However, the intensification of your cough, especially with nighttime pain, indicates that further assessment is necessary. Returning to urgent care or visiting an emergency room should be based on the severity of your symptoms.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a record of your symptoms, noting when they worsen (e.g., during the day vs. night, exposure to cold or strong smells). This information will be helpful for your provider.
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Home Care: Stay hydrated and consider using a humidifier in your bedroom at night to soothe your throat and decrease coughing. Over-the-counter cough suppressants may help manage nighttime coughing.
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Breathing Techniques: Practice deep breathing exercises to help manage shortness of breath. Slow, deep breaths can sometimes ease discomfort.
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Evaluate Urgency: If you experience severe chest pain, significant difficulty breathing, or if your cough produces blood, seek immediate medical attention. Otherwise, wait for your scheduled appointment with your primary care physician next week, bringing your symptom diary for reference.
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Consider Triggers: Try to minimize exposure to known irritants—cold air and strong odors—where possible.
Stay proactive, and listen to your body. If your symptoms continue to worsen or you feel that they are not manageable, don't hesitate to seek care sooner.
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