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!
Answers (1)
2/6/2026, 3:30:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with frequent respiratory infections, which can be incredibly frustrating, especially since you otherwise consider yourself healthy and active. It’s understandable to feel uncertain about this situation, especially given your history of asthma and the impact of environmental factors like wildfires on your respiratory health.
Explanation:
Frequent respiratory infections can stem from various factors, including environmental triggers, immune system responses, and underlying conditions like asthma. The wildfires may have exacerbated your respiratory issues by increasing air pollution, which can irritate the airways and make you more susceptible to infections. Since your previous assessments have not revealed significant abnormalities, it may be beneficial to focus on preventive measures and daily health practices.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Symptoms:
- Keep a diary of any respiratory symptoms, noting when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers (like air quality or allergens). This can help identify patterns and inform your subsequent discussions with healthcare professionals.
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Environmental Management:
- During episodes of poor air quality, especially after wildfires, limit outdoor activity, especially during peak pollution times. Use air purifiers indoors if possible and consider staying indoors to reduce exposure to irritants.
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Strengthening Immunity:
- Ensure you’re getting adequate rest, nutrition, and hydration. Foods rich in vitamin C (like oranges and bell peppers) and zinc (like nuts and seeds) can support your immune system.
- Regular, moderate exercise can also help strengthen your respiratory system and overall health.
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Asthma Management:
- As someone with asthma, it's important to have a clear management plan. Make sure your asthma is well-controlled, and discuss with your doctor if any adjustments in medication are needed, especially during increased illness episodes.
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Consider Allergy Testing:
- Since your symptoms have increased in frequency, it might be worthwhile to discuss with your doctor the potential of having allergies tested. This can identify any specific allergens that may be contributing to your respiratory issues.
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Stay Informed:
- Stay updated on local air quality reports and take precautions on days when air quality is poor. Websites like AirNow provide real-time pollution information.
If your symptoms continue to worsen or new ones develop, reassessing with a healthcare professional might be necessary to explore other underlying factors. Remember, you’re not alone in feeling concerned, and taking proactive steps can help regain some control over your health.
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