Breathing Difficulties and Coughing: When to Seek Help - Pulmonology

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Breathing difficulties, persistent coughing, and sensations of discomfort in the throat can be distressing and may indicate underlying health issues that require attention. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that could be related to several factors, including muscular tension, gastrointestinal issues, and possibly respiratory conditions.

Firstly, the sensation of having a foreign body in your throat, along with difficulty swallowing and coughing, could be linked to a condition known as globus sensation. This is often associated with anxiety, stress, or muscle tension in the throat area. The tightness in your neck muscles, particularly around the cervical spine, may contribute to this sensation. When you press on this area and feel pain or discomfort, it could be a sign of muscle strain or tension, which can also affect your ability to breathe comfortably.

The fact that you experience relief in your breathing after coughing suggests that there may be mucus or irritation in your airways. This could be due to post-nasal drip, especially if you have a history of allergies or sinus issues. Allergic rhinitis can lead to increased mucus production, which can drip down the back of your throat, causing irritation and the sensation of needing to cough.

Your symptoms of chest tightness, particularly on the left side, and the need to elevate your legs while sleeping could indicate a few possibilities. While you mentioned that your recent endoscopy showed mild gastritis, it’s important to consider that gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also cause chest discomfort and breathing difficulties. Acid reflux can irritate the esophagus and throat, leading to sensations of tightness and discomfort.

Given that your thyroid function tests were normal, and you have already consulted with a gastroenterologist, it may be beneficial to explore other avenues. If your symptoms persist, it would be wise to consult a pulmonologist (lung specialist) to rule out any underlying respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These conditions can cause breathing difficulties and may not always present with obvious symptoms during initial examinations.

Additionally, considering your symptoms worsen with stress and anxiety, it may be beneficial to consult a mental health professional. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate physical symptoms, including those related to breathing and muscle tension. Techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and relaxation exercises can be effective in managing these symptoms.

In summary, your symptoms warrant a comprehensive evaluation. It would be advisable to see a pulmonologist to assess your respiratory function and rule out any lung-related issues. Additionally, addressing the muscular tension in your neck and exploring the possibility of anxiety-related symptoms with a mental health professional could provide further relief. Remember, it’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare providers about all your symptoms, as this will help them make a more accurate diagnosis and create an effective treatment plan tailored to your needs.