[26M] Experiencing breathing difficulties due to nasal swelling and mucus

Patient Description

A 26-year-old male reports difficulty breathing, rated as a 6 out of 10 in severity, which has been a chronic issue since age 10, coinciding with the start of Adderall medication. The patient describes the breathing difficulty as exacerbated by activities that raise the heartbeat and worsened by dramatic weather changes, particularly transitioning from warm to cold and hailing conditions. Symptoms include swollen nasal cavities, mucus production primarily at night, coughing due to mucus irritation in the lungs, and wheezing. The patient also reports chest tightness but denies severe chest pain or coughing up blood. No relief measures have been identified, and there is no reported fever, chills, or specific allergen triggers.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are a few possible conditions:

  • Chronic Rhinosinusitis: This is a long-term inflammation of the sinuses and nasal passages. It can cause nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, and mucus production. It's often triggered by allergies or infections.

    • Treatment typically involves nasal corticosteroids, saline nasal irrigation, and sometimes antibiotics if there's a bacterial infection.
  • 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 can be triggered by environmental factors such as weather changes.

    • Treatment for asthma usually involves avoiding triggers and using medications to prevent and treat symptoms.
  • Allergic Rhinitis: This is an allergic response to specific allergens. It can cause a variety of symptoms, including nasal congestion, mucus production, and difficulty breathing. Weather changes can exacerbate symptoms.

    • Treatment typically involves avoiding triggers and using antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroids.

What you can do

While you should definitely seek medical attention for a formal diagnosis, here are a few things you can do in the meantime:

  1. Try using a humidifier in your bedroom at night to help keep your nasal and throat passages moist.
  2. Over-the-counter saline nasal sprays can help clear your nasal passages.
  3. Over-the-counter decongestants or antihistamines may help with symptoms, but they should not be used for a long period of time without talking to a healthcare provider.
  4. Avoid triggers that you notice worsen your symptoms.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your breathing becomes increasingly difficult.
  • You experience chest pain.
  • You have difficulty speaking or become confused.
  • Your lips or face turn a bluish color.

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. Please consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment options.

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9 mo ago

People Also Ask


Can Adderall cause breathing difficulties or exacerbate asthma symptoms?

Adderall, a stimulant medication, can sometimes cause side effects such as increased heart rate and anxiety, which might exacerbate breathing difficulties or asthma symptoms in some individuals. It's important to discuss any side effects with a healthcare provider.


What are some common triggers for asthma and how can they be managed?

Common asthma triggers include allergens (like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander), respiratory infections, physical activity, cold air, and stress. Managing asthma involves avoiding known triggers, using prescribed medications, and having an action plan for asthma attacks.


How can weather changes affect respiratory conditions like asthma or allergic rhinitis?

Weather changes, particularly cold air and sudden temperature shifts, can trigger asthma symptoms and worsen conditions like allergic rhinitis. These changes can cause airways to become more reactive, leading to increased mucus production and difficulty breathing.


What are some effective home remedies or over-the-counter treatments for chronic rhinosinusitis?

Home remedies for chronic rhinosinusitis include using a humidifier to keep air moist, saline nasal irrigation to clear nasal passages, and over-the-counter decongestants or antihistamines for temporary relief. However, it's important to consult a healthcare provider for long-term management strategies.


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