[18M] With severe wheezing cough and difficulty breathing
Patient Description
An 18-year-old male presents with a severe wheezing cough that has been occurring for approximately 3 days. The cough is intermittent but persistent throughout the day, and it is exacerbated by cold air, allergens, and talking. The patient rates the severity of the cough as an 8 out of 10. Relief is partially achieved through hot showers and hot drinks, and occasionally the patient is able to expectorate a small amount of phlegm. However, the patient reports a sensation of a raw throat due to the coughing. The patient also experiences shortness of breath and chest tightness, which are concerning symptoms that may indicate a respiratory condition requiring medical evaluation. This is the first occurrence of such symptoms for the patient, and they have not been observed before. The patient's condition seems to worsen with exercise, as it triggers coughing fits.
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on the information provided, possible diagnoses include:
- Asthma: This is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell and may produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. Asthma is often triggered by allergens, cold air, and exercise.
- Treatment typically involves the use of inhalers to relax the muscles around the airways (bronchodilators) and reduce inflammation in the airways (corticosteroids).
- Bronchitis: This is inflammation of the lining of your bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs. Symptoms include coughing up thickened mucus and shortness of breath.
- Treatment typically involves rest, fluids, and possibly antibiotics if the bronchitis is caused by a bacterial infection.
- Allergic Rhinitis: This is a type of inflammation in the nose which occurs when the immune system overreacts to allergens in the air. Symptoms can include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, red, itchy, and watery eyes, and swelling around the eyes.
- Treatment typically involves avoiding allergens, over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays.
What you can do
- Try to avoid triggers such as cold air and allergens.
- Stay hydrated and rest as much as possible.
- Use a humidifier to help moisten your nasal passages and throat, making you more comfortable.
- Over-the-counter treatments such as decongestants and cough suppressants may provide some relief.
What you should look out for
Please seek immediate medical attention if:
- Your symptoms worsen or do not improve after a week.
- You have difficulty breathing or experience chest pain.
- You cough up blood or yellow or green mucus.
- You have other symptoms such as an ongoing fever, wheezing, or headaches.
Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. Please consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
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1 yr ago
