Breathing Difficulties After Weight Gain: Which Specialist to Consult? - Family Medicine

More Info

---

Breathing difficulties can be a complex issue, especially when they arise after significant weight gain. In your case, the rapid increase in weight from 85 kg to 95 kg over a month, accompanied by symptoms such as a feeling of not being able to breathe deeply, a sensation of obstruction, and occasional dizziness, warrants a thorough evaluation.
Given your symptoms, the first step is to consult a specialist in pulmonary medicine (also known as chest medicine). Pulmonologists are experts in diagnosing and treating respiratory issues, and they can perform tests such as pulmonary function tests, imaging studies (like chest X-rays or CT scans), and possibly sleep studies to assess for conditions like obstructive sleep apnea, which can be exacerbated by weight gain.
Additionally, it may be beneficial to see an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. Since you mentioned a sensation of obstruction and difficulty breathing, it’s possible that anatomical issues such as nasal obstruction due to conditions like deviated septum or enlarged turbinates could be contributing to your symptoms. An ENT can evaluate your nasal passages and throat to determine if there are any structural problems that need to be addressed.

Moreover, considering your weight gain and the associated symptoms, it’s also important to evaluate your cardiovascular health. Consulting a cardiologist may be advisable, especially if you experience dizziness, as this could indicate potential heart-related issues. They can perform tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram to assess your heart function.

In addition to these specialists, it might be beneficial to consult a primary care physician who can coordinate your care and help manage any underlying conditions, such as obesity, that may be contributing to your breathing difficulties. They can also provide guidance on weight management strategies, which could alleviate some of the pressure on your respiratory system.

As for immediate self-care strategies when experiencing breathing difficulties, consider the following:
1. Controlled Breathing Techniques: Practice slow, deep breathing exercises. Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your abdomen to expand, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. This can help calm your respiratory system.

2. Positioning: If you feel short of breath, try sitting upright or leaning slightly forward. This position can help open up your airways and make breathing easier.

3. Stay Calm: Anxiety can exacerbate feelings of breathlessness. Try to remain calm and focus on your breathing. If you feel overwhelmed, distraction techniques such as listening to music or engaging in light conversation can help.

4. Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid any known triggers that worsen your symptoms, such as allergens or irritants in your environment.

5. Use of Humidifiers: If dry air exacerbates your symptoms, consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air, which can help ease breathing.

In summary, your symptoms of breathing difficulties after weight gain should be evaluated by a pulmonologist, and possibly an ENT and cardiologist, to rule out any serious underlying conditions. Managing your weight through a combination of dietary changes and physical activity, as advised by your healthcare provider, can also significantly improve your respiratory health. Remember to seek immediate medical attention if your symptoms worsen or if you experience severe dizziness or chest pain.