Should You Seek Immediate Medical Attention for Breathing Issues?

Q: Should You Seek Immediate Medical Attention for Breathing Issues?

Hello： 1. <br>If you experience new symptoms or develop shortness of breath or fever, seek medical attention promptly. <br>2. <br>If your respiratory condition worsens, temporarily discontinue exercise and have your physician reassess during your appointment.

Should you seek medical attention for shortness of breath immediately, or can you wait a week before seeing a doctor?

I have been experiencing a persistent cough and have been diagnosed with fungal and tuberculosis infections, for which I regularly see a pulmonologist.
I have no history of chronic illness.
Recently, I have noticed that when I cough forcefully or during exercise, I hear sounds emanating from my body.
The sound when I cough is similar to this: https://www.bilibili.com/video/BV15J411m79k/?spm_id_from=333.337.top_right_bar_window_history.content.click&vd_source=b8ef32a35cfd3a3d6d7e85f612415feb.
The sound I hear while exercising is similar to the rhonchi at 8:37 in this video, and the pleural rub sound at 10:12 also resembles it, which seems to be coming from my throat (I have chronic coughing and swollen vocal cords): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eWGxuwVk3gs&list=FL5e7LxGRLljnw5Y4moxWOkw&index=1.

Today, I noticed that I have been consciously taking deep breaths, which I didn't do before, but I am not experiencing any difficulty breathing.
This reminds me that for the past week, I have been waking up to a buzzing sound that suddenly stops, and I wonder if it is related to my deep breathing stopping suddenly.

1.
Since I have a scheduled appointment with my pulmonologist next Friday for my fungal infection treatment, and he does not have other available times, I was wondering if I should ask him to evaluate my current condition as well.
Is there a concern with my situation? If there is a concern, should I seek medical attention before next Friday, or can I wait until a specific symptom arises? (Currently, I am not experiencing any inability to breathe or insomnia due to breathing difficulties, but the transition from just coughing and making strange noises during exercise to consciously deep breathing has only been a day or two, and I am unsure if this situation will worsen in the coming days.)
2.
Can I continue to exercise with my current condition?

x, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/04/07

Dr. Zhou Ziguang reply Pulmonology

Hello: 1.
If you experience new symptoms or develop shortness of breath or fever, seek medical attention promptly.
2.
If your respiratory condition worsens, temporarily discontinue exercise and have your physician reassess during your appointment.

Reply Date: 2023/04/07

More Info

When it comes to breathing issues, especially for someone with a history of respiratory infections like fungal and tuberculosis infections, it's crucial to approach the situation with caution. Your symptoms, including a persistent cough, abnormal sounds during coughing and exertion, and the need for conscious deep breathing, warrant careful consideration.

1. Should You Seek Immediate Medical Attention?
Given your medical history and the new symptoms you're experiencing, it is advisable to err on the side of caution. While you have a scheduled appointment with your pulmonologist next week, there are certain indicators that suggest you may need to seek medical attention sooner:
- Worsening Symptoms: If your cough becomes more severe, or if you start experiencing shortness of breath, chest pain, or any signs of respiratory distress, you should seek immediate medical help.
- Changes in Breathing Sounds: The sounds you describe, such as rhonchi or pleural rub, can indicate underlying issues such as bronchospasm, fluid in the pleural space, or other complications. If these sounds become more pronounced or are accompanied by wheezing or stridor, it could signify a worsening condition.

- Conscious Deep Breathing: The fact that you are now consciously taking deep breaths could indicate that your body is signaling a need for more oxygen or that you are experiencing discomfort. This change in your breathing pattern is significant and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

If you experience any of the following, you should seek immediate medical attention:
- Difficulty breathing or feeling like you can't catch your breath.

- Chest pain that is new or worsening.

- Increased heart rate or palpitations.

- Fever or chills, which could indicate an infection.

2. Can You Wait Until Your Appointment?
If your symptoms remain stable and you do not experience any of the concerning signs mentioned above, it may be acceptable to wait until your scheduled appointment. However, keep in mind that respiratory conditions can change rapidly, and it’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any deterioration or new symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical attention sooner.

3. Is It Safe to Exercise?
Regarding exercise, it largely depends on how you feel. If you can engage in light activities without exacerbating your symptoms, it may be beneficial. Exercise can help improve lung function and overall health. However, if you find that physical activity triggers your cough or makes you feel short of breath, it would be wise to limit your exercise until you can discuss this with your doctor.

Conclusion
In summary, while you have a follow-up appointment, your current symptoms and medical history suggest that you should be vigilant. If your condition worsens or you experience any alarming symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. It’s always better to be safe, especially with respiratory issues that can escalate quickly. In the meantime, monitor your symptoms closely, and consider light activity if it does not provoke discomfort. Always prioritize your health and well-being, and do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if you have concerns.

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