Seeking Insights on Long Covid Respiratory Issues
Greetings, everyone. I’m reaching out for assistance because I have been enduring a persistent respiratory symptom for the past five years, and I would greatly appreciate any advice or insights. Here's a brief overview of my situation: **Personal Medical Background:** - Female, 21 years old, history of asthma since childhood, which became less severe over the years until the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. I stopped relying on a rescue inhaler after turning nine. - Experienced a severe MRSA infection in the nasal area in 2020, which led to a cyst and granuloma that necessitated surgical intervention. I recuperated without complications. - No family history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or any hereditary respiratory conditions. **Timeline of Illness:** - I contracted COVID-19 in June 2021, exhibiting only mild cold-like symptoms during the illness, and was otherwise in good health. - Around two days post-infection, I encountered this persistent respiratory issue for the first time. **Current Symptoms:** Since recovering from any respiratory illness, including COVID, I have consistently experienced the following symptoms in the order presented: 1. Chest tightness and breathlessness 2. Post-nasal drip, escalating from mild to severe 3. Presence of both dry and productive coughs 4. Occasional sore throat, often resulting from persistent coughing 5. Expectoration of mucus that ranges from white to light yellow 6. Wheezing and asthmatic tendencies. I have had to purchase an inhaler again for these symptoms, despite having no need for one since I was ten. 7. Lightheadedness 8. If untreated, these symptoms can ultimately lead to pneumonia. **Infection Details:** - To my knowledge, all infections have been bacterial and have responded well to varied antibiotic treatments (including amoxicillin and Z-Pak). - Amoxicillin has proven to be the most effective, as it alleviates symptoms the quickest (and I always ensure to complete the prescribed antibiotic course). - Following treatment, all respiratory symptoms vanish completely until I experience another respiratory complication that rekindles the cycle. - There has been no increase in the frequency of such infections; I still contract them with the same regularity as before COVID, approximately once annually during the flu season. - Symptoms will not resolve without treatment; I have spent up to six months untreated before the pneumonia symptoms became overwhelming. **Latest Infection:** My most recent respiratory challenge began about ten days ago and has presented itself differently than before: - This time, the initial onset wasn’t linked to a respiratory illness; the symptoms appeared following an allergic reaction after cleaning animal enclosures and developed into familiar symptoms by the next day. - The progression of this latest infection has been alarmingly swift, showcasing more significant breathlessness within a week. - I have not yet explored potential antibiotic resistance, but I have an appointment with my doctor soon. Originally, I speculated that I might have a colony of MRSA residing in the back of my throat that becomes active whenever my immunity is low. However, this theory doesn’t align with the effectiveness of standard antibiotics like amoxicillin. I have undergone testing for strep throat during symptomatic episodes, which yielded negative results. I consulted with a pulmonologist, who seemed to echo my suspicions, attributing it to a secondary bacterial infection. I am keen to explore if I am overlooking any other factors while examining my situation holistically. Thank you for any insights or guidance you may have!
Answers (1)
9/15/2025, 2:01:59 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable that you are feeling frustrated and concerned about your persistent respiratory symptoms, especially given your medical history. Your situation involves a combination of asthma, potential long COVID symptoms, and recurrent respiratory infections. The long-term nature of your symptoms warrants a thorough approach.
Key Points:
- Your symptoms, including chest tightness, cough, and breathlessness, appear to be triggered by both respiratory infections and environmental factors (like allergies).
- There may be overlapping conditions such as asthma exacerbation and possible post-viral respiratory syndrome (or long COVID).
Explanation:
You have a complex respiratory history complicated by asthma and prior severe infections. The symptoms you are experiencing could be related to:
- Asthma Exacerbation: Asthma can be sensitive to allergens and respiratory infections. Symptoms like wheezing, chest tightness, and breathlessness can flare up with environmental triggers.
- Post-COVID Respiratory Issues: After experiencing COVID-19, many individuals report lingering symptoms, which can include respiratory issues. This can manifest as a chronic cough, breathlessness, or a feeling of tightness.
- Recurrent Infections: Given your history of MRSA and the need for antibiotics, there may be an underlying susceptibility potentially tied to your asthma or immune responses.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Symptoms Closely: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, noting when they worsen and what triggers them (like allergens). This will aid in identifying patterns and effectively communicating with your healthcare provider.
-
Allergy Management:
- Consider using antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids to manage allergic reactions, especially if cleaning animal enclosures exacerbates your symptoms.
- Maintain good air quality at home; consider using air purifiers, and minimize exposure to known allergens.
-
Asthma Action Plan:
- Consult with your doctor to update or create an asthma management plan. Ensure you have a rescue inhaler on hand and know when to use it.
- Ask about the possibility of long-term control medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids, if appropriate.
-
Testing for Underlying Issues:
- Discuss with your doctor about any recurring infections and the potential for antibiotic resistance, especially since you have had numerous treatments. This might include cultures or sensitivity tests if infections recur.
- If bacterial infections are common, your doctor may suggest seeing an infectious disease specialist.
-
Pulmonary Rehabilitation: If breathlessness continues to affect your daily activities, ask your doctor about pulmonary rehabilitation programs that can help improve lung function and overall breathing efficiency.
-
Stay Hydrated and Rest: Ensure you are drinking enough fluids and getting proper rest to help your body recover if you experience another respiratory infection.
These steps can help manage your current symptoms and potentially reduce the frequency and severity of future episodes. It's great that you have an appointment scheduled with your doctor; make sure to discuss these points to ensure a comprehensive approach to your respiratory health. Let me know if you need more specific information!
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.