OpenHealth Q&A

Struggling With an Elusive Illness: My Journey

Over seven years ago, I encountered a baffling health issue that dramatically altered my life. I was 27 years old and out for a slow stroll with my aging dog when I suddenly experienced a constriction in my chest, particularly around the sternum area. Since that moment, I have been unable to take a full, satisfying breath. Attempting to breathe feels like trying to draw air through narrow straws—a constant challenge that brings significant distress, yet I have found ways to manage it. One of the primary indicators of my condition is oddly simple: I am unable to draw in enough air to complete a yawn. When I attempt this, the air seems to stagnate in my mouth without making its way down my throat. After a few days of grappling with this unsettling sensation, I sought help in the emergency room. Their assessment led to a diagnosis of a panic attack, and I was sent home. Given that I had never smoked or consumed alcohol and had been in good health prior to this incident, I found myself hoping this explanation held some truth. However, as weeks went by without any sign of improvement, my visits to various doctors proved to be unfruitful. Despite a lengthy hiatus during which I endeavored to convince myself that stress was the culprit, my quest for answers continues, leaving me with only a collection of symptoms and inconclusive test results. **Current Symptoms:** - Persistent nasal discomfort that resembles congestion, yet without any actual blockage—my nose often feels full, and occasionally, one nostril closes completely. As someone who primarily breathes through my nose, I am acutely aware that the airflow is not normal, sometimes directing my breath in unexpected angles. - A numb sensation in my chest; breathing feels as if I’m forcing air through a thick layer of material rather than my lungs. I hardly experience the diaphragm's movement, and I am contending with a constant tightness across my sternum. - My heart's rhythm can be unsettling, particularly when I'm in certain positions, leading to an alarming feeling akin to missing a beat. Physical exertion drains my energy far beyond what would be expected. Though I try to maintain my walking regimen, the steep hill at my home leaves me feeling excessively fatigued, which can't simply be blamed on the effects of aging. - Inhaling or exhaling evokes odd sensations across my torso. - I find myself sweating profusely and overheated, irrespective of the climate. Initially, my abdomen would feel too constricted to allow for proper breathing, creating a sense of fatigue when standing. Upon waking, my first breath would feel torturous, releasing built-up discomfort from sleep. Surprisingly, this aspect improved about a year ago, after a curious feeling of release in my abdomen, yet I still feel an incessant pressure that leaves me gasping for breath. **Diagnostic Efforts:** - Most recently, I consulted an ENT specialist. Various examinations, including a camera inspection and CT scans, revealed no abnormalities. Although he suggested breathing therapy, he lacked confidence it would be effective. A barium swallow test also returned normal results. - When this all began, a cardiologist performed a treadmill test, which yielded normal results, despite one EKG being flagged for review, though the doctor seemed unconcerned. - Numerous X-rays and CT scans targeting my chest and sinuses showed no notable findings. - Two pulmonologists evaluated my situation; the latest one conducted a pulmonary function test, similar to the one from the onset of my symptoms, both producing normal readings. - My GP also referred me to a rheumatologist, who diagnosed me with Mixed Connective Tissue Disease, but ruled out any link between it and my breathing issues. I am under the care of a psychiatrist and receive treatment that includes Lexapro, Clonazepam, and Rexulti. While I am aware that my mental health influences my perception of these health challenges, I believe it is the chronic health issues that exacerbate my mental distress. In recent years, I have also experimented with edibles for relief, although I abstain from smoking. Despite trying numerous allergy medications, nasal sprays, and even an inhaler, I continue to struggle with my symptoms. I find myself at a loss for what steps to take next. This ongoing condition is significantly impacting my quality of life. I am open to any suggestions or guidance that may point me toward a resolution.

Answers (1)

2/11/2026, 12:21:18 PM

OpenHealth AI

I'm deeply sorry to hear about your ongoing health struggles. It sounds incredibly challenging and frustrating, especially after such an extensive search for answers. Your specific symptoms—including the constriction in your chest, breathing difficulties, and the sensations during inhalation—suggest that this situation is complex and may involve both physical and psychological components.

Main Points:

1. Chronic symptoms like breathlessness and chest discomfort can stem from various causes—both physical (like respiratory issues) and psychological (such as anxiety).
2. Continued exploration of therapeutic options, such as breathing exercises or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), may provide relief.
3. Keeping a symptom diary can help identify patterns or triggers and should be shared with your healthcare providers.

Explanation:

Your experience of feeling like you can't take a full breath and having other related symptoms could be linked to multiple factors. While your anxiety medications can help, they might not address the underlying issues entirely. The ruling out of serious conditions through tests is reassuring, but persistent symptoms require ongoing management and adaptation strategies.

You mentioned some symptoms that may be exacerbated by anxiety (like your heart sensation and fatigue), and the persistent nasal congestion can also indicate a possible underlying issue with your respiratory system or allergies, even if tests have not shown concrete evidence.

Next Steps:

1. Breathing Exercises: Consider introducing structured breathing techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing, which can help improve lung capacity and ease anxiety. Simple practices include inhaling deeply through the nose, holding for a moment, and exhaling slowly through pursed lips. You might also find mindfulness meditation beneficial to help manage anxiety and focus on your breathing.

2. Physical Therapy or Breathing Therapy: Look into physical therapy with a focus on respiratory health, which may help improve your breathing mechanics and alleviate discomfort. Ask about specialized programs for patients with breathing difficulties.

3. Symptom Diary: Begin documenting your symptoms in a diary. Note when symptoms arise, their severity, associated activities, and any potential triggers. This information can help you and your healthcare team identify patterns or correlations that might have been overlooked.

4. Environmental Factors: Evaluate your living environment for potential allergens (such as dust mites, molds, or pollens) that might exacerbate nasal congestion. Using an air purifier may also benefit overall air quality.

5. Collaboration with Your Care Team: Since you are already working with a psychiatrist and have seen multiple specialists, it’s crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare team. Discuss your concerns about both your physical symptoms and mental health. You may also want to consider a multidisciplinary approach involving a psychologist specializing in chronic illness.

If you continue to feel troubled by these symptoms, persistent communication with your healthcare team for further assessment is essential, as they can offer a more tailored management plan based on your unique situation.

Please remember you’re not alone in this journey, and seeking support from trusted individuals or a professional can provide additional relief. Let me know if you need further details or have specific areas you want to explore!