Struggling with Breathing: When to Seek Further Medical Help?

Q: Struggling with Breathing: When to Seek Further Medical Help?

Hello： Please consult a pulmonologist. <br>If no issues are found, then see a cardiologist and a psychiatrist, as sometimes it can be caused by stress. <br>Thank you. <br>Jian Shun-Tian.

Often, I have to breathe through my mouth and take deep breaths to feel comfortable?

I previously visited a pulmonologist who performed a chest X-ray and prescribed a bronchodilator.
However, after using it for a month, I have not experienced any improvement.
My symptoms include occasionally needing to take deep breaths until my lungs feel full in order to feel comfortable.
I'm unsure about what to do next or which specialist I should see.

Mr. Wang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/21

Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology

Hello: Please consult a pulmonologist.
If no issues are found, then see a cardiologist and a psychiatrist, as sometimes it can be caused by stress.
Thank you.
Jian Shun-Tian.

Reply Date: 2016/07/21

More Info

If you are struggling with breathing and have not seen improvement after using a bronchodilator for a month, it is essential to seek further medical help. Breathing difficulties can stem from various underlying conditions, and persistent symptoms warrant a thorough evaluation. Here are some recommendations and considerations based on your situation:
1. Follow-Up with a Specialist: Since you have already seen a pulmonologist (chest specialist) and had an X-ray, it may be beneficial to return to that specialist for a follow-up. If your symptoms have not improved, they may want to conduct further tests, such as a CT scan of the chest, pulmonary function tests, or even blood tests to assess for conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or interstitial lung disease.

2. Consider Other Specialists: If your pulmonologist does not find any issues, you might consider consulting an allergist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. Sometimes, breathing difficulties can be related to allergies, sinus issues, or other non-pulmonary conditions that affect your ability to breathe comfortably.

3. Assess for Anxiety or Panic Disorders: Sometimes, breathing difficulties can be exacerbated by anxiety or panic attacks. If you find that your breathing issues are accompanied by feelings of panic, rapid heartbeat, or a sense of impending doom, it may be worth speaking with a mental health professional. They can help determine if anxiety is contributing to your symptoms and provide coping strategies or treatments.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing the issue. Note if certain activities, environments, or times of day worsen your symptoms.

5. Lifestyle Modifications: While waiting for your next appointment, consider making some lifestyle changes that may help improve your breathing. This includes avoiding known allergens, quitting smoking if applicable, and engaging in gentle exercises like walking or yoga, which can help improve lung function and reduce stress.

6. Emergency Situations: If you experience severe shortness of breath, chest pain, or any signs of respiratory distress (such as bluish lips or fingertips, inability to speak in full sentences, or confusion), seek emergency medical attention immediately. These could be signs of a serious condition requiring urgent care.

7. Medication Review: Discuss with your doctor any other medications you are taking, as some can have side effects that affect breathing. Ensure that your healthcare provider is aware of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

8. Consider Pulmonary Rehabilitation: If your breathing issues are chronic, your doctor may recommend a pulmonary rehabilitation program. These programs are designed to help individuals with chronic lung diseases improve their quality of life through education, exercise training, and support.

In summary, if your breathing difficulties persist despite treatment, it is crucial to seek further medical evaluation. A comprehensive approach involving specialists, lifestyle changes, and careful monitoring of your symptoms will help you find the underlying cause and appropriate treatment for your breathing issues. Remember, your health is paramount, and advocating for yourself in the healthcare system is essential.

Similar Q&A

Breathing Difficulties: When to Seek Help for Lung or Heart Issues

If you have a smoking habit and have recently experienced shortness of breath, chest tightness, dry mouth, post-nasal drip, muscle stiffness in the shoulders, neck, and back, along with some palpitations, it is important to seek medical attention. Given your symptoms, it would be...

Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello: At this age, it is unlikely to have cardiopulmonary issues. It would be better to quit smoking, drink more water, exercise more, and manage stress; these measures can help alleviate symptoms.

Feeling Breathless: When to Seek Medical Attention for Respiratory Issues

Hello doctor, for the past few days, I have been experiencing a feeling of not being able to breathe properly. I find myself exerting a lot of effort to breathe, but even when I try to take deep breaths, it doesn't feel like I'm fully inhaling. I work in an office envir...

Dr. Zhou Ziguang reply Pulmonology
Hello: You can visit the pulmonology department for diagnosis and treatment.

Struggling to Breathe: Which Specialist Should You Consult?

You should seek help from a pulmonologist, as your symptoms may be related to respiratory issues.

Dr. Wang Lanfeng reply Pulmonology
Hello: Based on the symptoms you described, it is recommended that you first visit a pulmonology outpatient clinic for evaluation.

Understanding Breathing Difficulties: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing difficulty breathing for the past few weeks, along with persistent phlegm in my throat, but no coughing. Although I don't wake up every one or two hours at night, I do have trouble falling asleep due to breathing difficulties and the se...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Mr. Zhu: 1. There are many causes of dyspnea; it can be caused by pulmonary diseases, cardiac conditions, psychological factors, or metabolic disorders, among others. 2. Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) has a very strict definition and its symptoms are quite sev...