Breathing Difficulties and Ongoing Symptoms
Patient Profile: Female, age 29, height 5'6", weight 300 lbs Medical History: Diagnosed with Hashimoto's and lupus. Current Medication: Wellbutrin 300 mg daily and levothyroxine 100 mcg daily. Surgical History: No previous surgeries. In March, I experienced my initial bout with COVID-19, which was relatively mild except for a troublesome cough. By June, I encountered a respiratory virus that commenced with a fever. I sought treatment at urgent care, where I was prescribed a Z-pack, prednisone, an albuterol inhaler, and cough syrup. I commenced the medications that evening. Unfortunately, the following morning, I fainted at work and required a visit to the emergency room. A chest X-ray revealed perihilar opacity, but blood tests indicated there was no infection, leading the doctor to advise discontinuing the Z-pack. Tests for COVID and both strains of flu returned negative. I was ultimately diagnosed with a viral infection and instructed to rest at home. Over a month has passed, and I am still unwell, struggling with a tight feeling in my chest, abnormal lung sounds (rales), and a severe cough that is occasionally productive. Additionally, I am experiencing headaches and a general sense of fatigue. After visiting my primary care physician, another chest X-ray was performed, which still indicated perihilar opacities and fluid accumulation behind my ears. As a result, I was prescribed doxycycline to take twice daily for ten days, with a follow-up appointment scheduled in three weeks. I took my first dose of doxycycline with dinner last night but woke up today with an intense headache, blurred vision, and significant dizziness, making it difficult to take my dog outside. Several hours later, I am still battling these symptoms and feel disoriented. Should I discontinue doxycycline? I am uncertain about the next steps. I recognize the importance of the medication, but I cannot function in this state. What should I do now? *Note: I am a nursing professional.*
Answers (1)
8/2/2025, 1:50:46 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are facing a complex situation with ongoing respiratory issues, medication side effects, and persistent symptoms. The combination of chest tightness, abnormal lung sounds, cough, and the new onset of headache and dizziness after starting doxycycline is concerning. Let’s break down your situation and identify the best next steps.
Main Points:
- Your current symptoms may indicate a reaction to the doxycycline or the continuation of an underlying respiratory issue.
- Discontinuing or adjusting your medication is a critical consideration based on your response to it.
- Effective next steps must prioritize managing your symptoms and ensuring safety.
Explanation:
You were prescribed doxycycline to help address ongoing respiratory symptoms, but your recent experience of severe headache, blurred vision, and dizziness is troubling. These could potentially be side effects of the medication or related to your overall state of health. It's also essential to acknowledge that viral infections can lead to prolonged symptoms, especially with underlying conditions such as Hashimoto's and lupus, which may influence your immune response and recovery.
Next Steps:
-
Evaluate Medication Side Effects:
- Given your significant symptoms after taking doxycycline, it may be wise to discontinue it temporarily.
- Monitor your symptoms closely after stopping the dose, noting any changes in headache and dizziness.
-
Hydration and Rest:
- Ensure you stay hydrated and allow your body ample time to rest. Aim for plenty of fluids and balanced nutrition to help support your recovery.
-
Symptom Management:
- Use over-the-counter pain relief, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, if not contraindicated, to help with headaches.
- If dizziness persists, minimize activities until you feel more stable.
-
Immediate Communication:
- Reach out to your primary care physician or a pharmacist to discuss your current reaction to the doxycycline. This can help determine if you should stop the medication or explore alternatives.
- They may also reassess your respiratory symptoms to ensure nothing more critical is developing.
-
Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep a symptom diary to track daily changes in your cough, headaches, dizziness, and overall energy levels. This can be valuable information for your healthcare provider.
Final Note:
Your health is paramount, and while medication can help, it’s crucial to address any side effects that impair your daily functioning. If symptoms worsen, such as increasing shortness of breath, severe headache, or visual disturbances, consider seeking urgent care. You’re doing a great job navigating a challenging situation, and it’s important to prioritize your comfort and safety as you work through it.
Related Questions
How to Address a Persistent Cough
I’m a 16-year-old male, standing at 5'6" and weighing 65 kg, and I’ve been dealing with ongoing respiratory issues. Recently, I stopped using tobacco after a three-week period because I developed a cough. This cough has persisted for four months now, causing significant discomfort. I experience a tight feeling in my chest and produce thick mucus. My air passages often feel irritated, leading me to try to clear my throat frequently, and at times, I struggle with shortness of breath due to the excessive coughing. I've consulted several doctors who diagnosed me with acute bronchitis and allergic rhinitis. Despite undergoing X-rays which showed normal results, my condition hasn't improved. The medication prescribed to me, including Zykast, Kastair, and Meptin, initially helped, but once I completed the course, my symptoms returned. When I exhaust my prescription, I resort to over-the-counter options like cetirizine, which manage my symptoms for about 24 hours, but do not provide a lasting solution. This persistent coughing and wheezing significantly disrupt my everyday activities. I’m seeking advice on how to alleviate these symptoms effectively. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
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!
Breathing Difficulties
I’m 14 years old, weigh about 125 pounds, and stand approximately 5'4" tall. Despite being active, I experience persistent coughing, especially when I try to run. Could someone provide insight on this? Should I just focus on becoming more active and building my endurance? Additionally, I often struggle to breathe properly through one or both of my nostrils. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Difficulties Breathing After Being Around Smokers
As a 16-year-old male diagnosed with turbinate hypertrophy, I've been utilizing Fluticasone propionate and azelastine nasal spray for the past 15 days, during which I experienced notable improvements in my breathing. However, today I found myself in the company of several smokers and suddenly experienced severe shortness of breath. This distressing sensation persisted until I moved away from that environment. Each time I am near smokers, I encounter similar breathing difficulties. Could this mean that I am allergic to cigarettes? Or might it be a sign of asthma or another underlying issue?
Seeking Clarity on My Pulmonary Test Results
I am a 29-year-old female weighing 300 pounds, with a background of smoking and vaping, and I'm feeling quite anxious about my pulmonary test results. I’m often experiencing dry heaving and on occasion, I either vomit or cough up blood. I have a CT scan scheduled for my lungs at the end of the month, but I would appreciate any guidance on interpreting my results. The flow volume loops did not meet the criteria set by the American Thoracic Society (ATS). Although my Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) is deemed normal, mild airflow obstruction was noted. This could be a typical variation for a person who is otherwise healthy, since my Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1) remains normal. Further clinical evaluation is necessary. While my Vital Capacity (VC) is within range, the Functional Residual Capacity (FRC) shows a decrease. On the other hand, the Ratio of Residual Volume to Total Lung Capacity (RV/TLC) is normal, and my Total Lung Capacity (TLC) is also satisfactory. Notably, the Diffusing Capacity of the Lung for Carbon Monoxide (DLCO) passed the ATS criteria, indicating normal diffusing capacity.