[25F] With wheezing, chest tightness, and sore neck

Patient Description

A 25-year-old female has been experiencing moderate wheezing on and off for the past three days, which started suddenly and has been getting worse. The wheezing is somewhat relieved by warm liquids and cough syrup. She also reports a sore neck that began a day ago, described as a tight feeling, especially when turning her head or relaxing her shoulders, with a severity of 7-8. Additionally, she has a dull throbbing headache that started a couple of hours ago, rated 2-3 in severity. The patient also reports tightness in her chest for the past day or two, described as pressure with a severity of 6-7, which worsens with coughing harder or lifting her arms above her head. She has experienced fever and chills recently, though the exact temperature is unknown, and she also reports shortness of breath. The patient has not smoked in the past 3-5 days since noticing these symptoms but usually smokes daily using a vape. She is currently taking Mucinex DM Maximum Strength (1 tablet every 12 hours) and drinking warm tea with honey. There have been no changes in her birth control implant or hypothyroidism symptoms recently. No other medications, supplements, or herbal remedies are being used.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are some possible explanations:

Wheezing, Chest Tightness, and Shortness of Breath

  • Asthma or Reactive Airway Disease: These conditions can cause wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath, especially if triggered by a recent upper respiratory infection.
  • Bronchitis: This is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often following a viral infection, which can cause wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing.
  • Allergic Reaction: Exposure to allergens can cause wheezing and chest tightness, although you mentioned no known recent exposures.

Sore Neck

  • Muscle Strain: This could be due to poor posture, especially if you've been coughing a lot, which can strain the neck muscles.
  • Lymphadenopathy: Swollen lymph nodes due to a recent infection can cause neck soreness.

Headache

  • Tension Headache: This is often caused by stress or muscle tension, which could be related to your neck soreness.
  • Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses can cause a dull, throbbing headache, especially if you have a recent upper respiratory infection.

Fever and Chills

  • Infection: A recent upper respiratory viral infection could explain the fever and chills, as well as some of your other symptoms.

What you can do

Wheezing, Chest Tightness, and Shortness of Breath

  • See a Doctor: Given the severity and worsening of your symptoms, it's important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They may perform a physical exam, lung function tests, or imaging studies.
  • Continue Using Mucinex: This can help thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to cough up.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water and warm tea with honey, to help soothe your throat and thin mucus.
  • Avoid Triggers: Try to avoid known allergens or irritants, such as smoke or strong odors.

Sore Neck

  • Apply Heat or Ice: Use a warm compress or ice pack on your neck for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce soreness.
  • Gentle Stretching: Perform gentle neck stretches to relieve muscle tension.
  • Maintain Good Posture: Be mindful of your posture, especially when sitting or using electronic devices.

Headache

  • Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Consider taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, following the recommended dosage.
  • Rest in a Quiet, Dark Room: This can help alleviate headache symptoms.

General Advice

  • Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes or new symptoms, using the MDandMe journal. This can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns and triggers.
  • Seek Medical Attention: If your symptoms worsen or you experience new concerning symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

What you should look out for

Given the severity of your symptoms and the possibility of serious underlying conditions, you should seek medical care as soon as possible. Reasons to seek care even more urgently include:

  • Severe Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling like you can't get enough air.
  • Chest Pain: Any new or worsening chest pain, especially if it feels like pressure or squeezing.
  • High Fever: A fever that is very high or not responding to over-the-counter medications.
  • Fainting or Severe Dizziness: Feeling like you might pass out or experiencing severe dizziness.

Remember, while I can provide guidance based on your symptoms, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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5 mo ago

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People Also Ask


What could be causing my wheezing and chest tightness?

Wheezing and chest tightness can be caused by conditions such as asthma, reactive airway disease, bronchitis, or an allergic reaction. It's important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.


How can I relieve my sore neck and headache?

To relieve a sore neck, you can apply heat or ice, perform gentle stretching, and maintain good posture. For headaches, consider over-the-counter pain relief and resting in a quiet, dark room.


Is it safe to continue vaping if I have these symptoms?

It is advisable to avoid vaping or smoking when experiencing respiratory symptoms like wheezing and chest tightness, as these can exacerbate your condition.


When should I seek medical attention for my symptoms?

You should seek medical attention if you experience severe shortness of breath, new or worsening chest pain, a high fever, or severe dizziness. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.


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