Symptoms: Coughing, Breathing Issues, and Chest Discomfort

Q: Symptoms: Coughing, Breathing Issues, and Chest Discomfort

Hello： Your symptoms are more indicative of allergic rhinitis and post-nasal drip. <br>Taking antihistamines for allergies often leads to symptoms of throat dryness and itchiness. <br>It is recommended to drink plenty of warm water and to avoid cold foods. <br>For fruits, it is a

Coughing up phlegm, difficulty breathing, mild chest pain?

Hello, doctor.
On October 1st, I visited the clinic due to symptoms such as a runny nose and fatigue.
I've had a history of nasal allergies since childhood, experiencing persistent runny nose, especially in the mornings or during significant weather changes.
However, this time I felt more fatigued, prompting me to seek medical attention.
At that time, aside from nasal symptoms, my throat felt slightly dry and itchy, but I had no significant cough or fever (the clinic measured my axillary temperature at 36.8 degrees Celsius).

A week later, my cold symptoms improved, but I started to develop a mild cough.
My throat did not hurt, but I felt discomfort deeper in my throat near the clavicle, with a bit of itchiness and a sensation of something being stuck.
Each time I coughed, I almost always produced phlegm, which was clear and slightly white.
Additionally, I felt some difficulty breathing and occasionally needed to take a deep breath to feel more comfortable.

On October 12th, I visited the clinic again, and the doctor diagnosed me with acute bronchitis, advising me to drink plenty of water and avoid cold and sweet foods.
Over the past few days, while the amount of phlegm has decreased, I still feel some difficulty in breathing.
However, I do not experience significant shortness of breath during daily activities like climbing stairs, walking, or even jumping rope.
I still do not have a fever, but occasionally my afternoon temperature reaches 37 degrees Celsius (axillary).

In the past two days, I have also felt some pain above my right chest and occasionally on the left side, with slight pain during deep breaths.
Additionally, I have experienced mild pain near my clavicle.
After researching related symptoms online, I found that pneumonia, asthma, bronchitis, and even lung cancer can present similar symptoms (especially chest pain during deep breaths).
Therefore, I would like to ask the doctor if this situation is considered serious and whether further examination is necessary.

A He, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/10/17

Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology

Hello: Your symptoms are more indicative of allergic rhinitis and post-nasal drip.
Taking antihistamines for allergies often leads to symptoms of throat dryness and itchiness.
It is recommended to drink plenty of warm water and to avoid cold foods.
For fruits, it is advisable to focus on pears, guavas, and grapes for now, as other fruits tend to be more cooling in nature, so it’s best to avoid them for the time being!

Reply Date: 2018/10/17

More Info

Based on your detailed description of symptoms, it appears that you are experiencing a combination of respiratory issues, including nasal congestion, coughing, and chest discomfort. These symptoms can be quite distressing and may lead to concerns about underlying conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, or even more serious respiratory diseases.
From your account, it seems that you have a history of nasal allergies, which can often lead to complications such as sinusitis or bronchitis, especially during seasonal changes. The fact that you have been diagnosed with acute bronchitis suggests that your airways are inflamed, which can cause coughing, mucus production, and discomfort in the chest area. The presence of clear to slightly white phlegm is typical of bronchitis, as it indicates that your body is trying to clear out irritants or infections from your respiratory system.

Your experience of feeling like you need to take deep breaths occasionally, along with the discomfort in your chest, could be attributed to several factors. One possibility is that the inflammation in your airways is causing a sensation of tightness or pressure, which can mimic the feeling of not being able to breathe properly. This is not uncommon in cases of bronchitis or asthma, where the airways are constricted or inflamed.
The pain you describe in your chest, particularly when taking deep breaths, could also be related to muscle strain from coughing or even irritation of the pleura (the lining around the lungs). However, it is essential to monitor this symptom closely, especially if it worsens or is accompanied by other concerning signs such as significant shortness of breath, high fever, or persistent pain.

Given that you have had a slight fever (37 degrees Celsius) and ongoing discomfort, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation, such as a chest X-ray or pulmonary function tests, to rule out conditions like pneumonia or asthma exacerbation. It's also important to consider that anxiety can sometimes exacerbate the perception of breathing difficulties, especially if you are feeling stressed about your symptoms.

In the meantime, here are some general recommendations to help manage your symptoms:
1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help thin mucus and make it easier to expel.

2. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from smoke, strong odors, and allergens that can worsen your symptoms.

3. Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help soothe irritated airways and ease coughing.

4. Practice Breathing Exercises: Techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing can help improve your lung capacity and reduce feelings of breathlessness.

5. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including the frequency and severity of your cough, chest pain, and any new symptoms that may arise.

6. Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to any treatment plans or medications prescribed by your healthcare provider, and do not hesitate to reach out to them if your symptoms do not improve or worsen.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to acute bronchitis and allergies, it is essential to remain vigilant and consult with your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment for your condition.

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