Seeking Clarity on Breathing Issues
Profile: Male, 25 years old, 6 feet tall, weighing 200 pounds, Caucasian, located in the USA. Medications/Vitamins: Aside from occasional over-the-counter medications, I take nothing. Since experiencing Covid in 2020, I have struggled with shortness of breath. Despite undergoing pulmonary function tests (PFT) and CT scans that have returned completely normal results, I still find my breathing is not what it used to be. Before my illness, I consumed approximately three packs of cigarettes throughout my life and used marijuana frequently. During the weeks I was ill, I sensed a significant decline in my lung capacity, which hasn’t improved even with the normal test outcomes. The only anomalies I have observed are an elevated heart rate, occasional increases in my red blood cell (RBC) count according to blood tests, alongside persistent difficulty in breathing. Could there be another factor contributing to these symptoms? Is it possible that my lungs are actually functioning well and that the issue lies elsewhere in my body? Could there have been a misinterpretation of my PFT results? What other factors might contribute to an increased RBC count?
Answers (1)
2/5/2026, 12:20:32 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned about persistent breathing issues, especially after experiencing Covid. Your symptoms and normal test results suggest that while your lungs may be functioning well in a physical sense, other factors could be contributing to your breathing difficulties.
Explanation
Shortness of breath can stem from various sources beyond the lungs themselves. After Covid, some individuals report ongoing symptoms often referred to as "long Covid," which can contribute to respiratory issues. Additionally, anxiety or stress can manifest as breathing difficulties, and elevated levels of stress can also lead to an increased heart rate and changes in blood parameters like red blood cell count.
Your history of smoking, though limited, may also play a part in your respiratory health, impacting lung capacity or sensitivity. Lastly, issues unrelated to lung function — such as anxiety, anemia, or cardiovascular factors — could contribute to both your elevated RBC count and sensations of breathlessness.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your breathing difficulty, noting when it occurs, its severity, and any triggers or associated symptoms. This information can provide valuable insights into patterns.
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Breathing Exercises: Practice techniques such as diaphragm breathing or pursed lip breathing, which may help you feel more in control of your breathing. You can find various resources online or consider guided sessions from reputable sources.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are well-hydrated and eating a balanced diet, as these can positively impact overall health and help manage your blood parameters.
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Stress Management: Engage in activities that reduce anxiety, such as yoga, meditation, or gentle physical activity. These practices may help improve your overall sense of well-being and may alleviate some symptoms.
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Discuss Further Testing: Consider discussing additional assessments with your healthcare provider concerning your breathing issues and elevated RBC count. This may include evaluating for conditions such as sleep apnea, anxiety disorders, or other potential cardiovascular issues.
By focusing on these steps, you can work toward understanding and potentially alleviating your symptoms. Should your situation change or if you experience new, concerning symptoms (such as severe chest pain or difficulty breathing), re-evaluation by a healthcare professional would be crucial.
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