Persistent Breathing Issues Despite Clear Tests and Temporary Relief from Coughing
Greetings everyone, I’m reaching out because I’ve been facing challenges with persistent shortness of breath, a sensation of pressure in my ears, and an irritating feeling of mucus trapped in my chest. When I push myself to cough, I notice a brief improvement in my breathing. This troubling situation began yesterday but has been affecting me since January 9th. Since then, I have consulted multiple healthcare professionals regarding these symptoms. They conducted blood tests, which returned normal results, along with CT scans of both my lungs and sinuses, but nothing abnormal has been found. Some doctors are leaning towards the idea that my condition might be psychological. However, I truly believe that's not the case; if it were only in my mind, I wouldn't find that coughing something up can temporarily help my breathing. Additionally, I’ve experienced discomfort near my heart and on the opposite side, alongside lingering back pain, and now I’ve begun to have soreness in my throat too. I realize this may come off as exaggerated, yet my intention is not to seek attention. I don’t enjoy frequent medical visits and as a single parent, this entire ordeal adds significant stress, particularly since I haven’t found a suitable resolution. I currently reside in Potsdam, Germany. If anyone has local recommendations or if any medical professionals read this and could offer guidance, I would be deeply grateful. Has anyone else had similar experiences, or is there anything else I might consider examining or attempting? Your suggestions would mean a lot to me. Thank you so much for your help! To share a bit more about myself: - I’m a 52-year-old female, weighing 53 kg and measuring 1.63 meters in height. Here is my extensive medication list: - Levofloxacin 500 mg - Levofloxacin 250 mg - Mome Galen 50 micrograms per pump (nasal spray) - Prednisolone Galen 50 mg - ACC Akut 200 mg - Salbutamol - Ratiopharm N dosed aerosol 0.1 mg per pump (inhaler) - Bronchodual N Aerosol 20 micrograms per pump (inhaler) - Mundi Farma - Flutiform Dosing Aerosol 125 micrograms per pump (inhaler) - Relvar Ellipta inhaler 92 micrograms
Answers (1)
2/13/2026, 6:10:45 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are going through a challenging time with your breathing issues and related symptoms. The sensation of shortness of breath, along with discomfort in your ears, chest, and throat, can certainly be unsettling, especially when you've already consulted multiple healthcare professionals without a clear diagnosis. Here are the main points to help you navigate this situation:
Main Points:
- Your breathing difficulties and chest irritation could stem from respiratory conditions or allergic reactions, even if tests are normal.
- Continued monitoring and self-care can help manage symptoms, while also addressing the mental toll this is taking on you.
Explanation:
Given the extensive medical evaluations you've undergone, including normal blood tests and imaging, it's understandable that you feel concerned and frustrated. The fact that coughing temporarily alleviates your symptoms points towards possible bronchial irritation or mucus-related issues. Psychological factors cannot be completely dismissed, but it’s crucial to focus on physical aspects given your described symptoms.
Suggested Next Steps:
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Hydration and Humidity: Make sure to drink plenty of fluids to help thin mucus secretions. Additionally, using a humidifier in your living space can improve airway moisture, which might alleviate your cough and aid in mucus clearance.
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Steam Inhalation: Try inhaling steam (from a bowl of hot water or a warm shower) to help soothe airway irritation and potentially assist with mucus clearance.
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Positioning for Breathing: Experiment with positions that may make breathing easier, such as sitting upright or leaning slightly forward. This can sometimes provide immediate relief.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a symptom diary to track any patterns, triggers, or changes. Note when shortness of breath worsens, as well as any potential connections to activities, stress levels, or environmental changes.
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Use Inhalers as Directed: Ensure that you are using your inhalers (like Salbutamol and Flutiform) correctly and consistently as prescribed, especially during episodes of difficulty breathing. If unsure, consider consulting a pharmacist for a demonstration or review.
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Consider Follow-up Testing or Management: If symptoms persist, discuss with your healthcare provider about potentially exploring additional factors, such as allergies, gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), or asthma management, which might not have been thoroughly assessed yet.
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Support for Mental Health: Engaging with a support group or a therapist may help manage the emotional stress of dealing with chronic symptoms, especially as a single parent.
Other Considerations:
If your symptoms change dramatically or you experience severe chest pain, increased heart discomfort, or worsening shortness of breath, seek immediate medical attention. It’s essential that you prioritize your health.
Remember, you're not alone in this experience, and many individuals face similar challenges. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate through this, and don’t hesitate to reach out for further support when needed.
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