[35F] With chest pain and respiratory symptoms

Patient Description

A 35-year-old female presents with chest pain described as pressure that intensifies with deep breaths, rated 8/10 in severity, persisting for two days. The patient reports moderate to severe difficulty breathing, wheezing, and hoarseness. Symptoms began suddenly with a sore throat, nasal congestion, and a severe sinus headache, which is now mild. She also experiences body aches and a dry cough causing chest discomfort. The patient is a smoker but unable to smoke due to pain. No history of lung conditions like asthma or COPD. No nausea, vomiting, or significant leg swelling. No known allergies and not on any medications. Past medical history includes removal of enlarged tonsils and adenoids in childhood.

Show More

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are some possibilities:

  • Respiratory Infection: Your symptoms, including chest pain, difficulty breathing, sore throat, and headache, could indicate a respiratory infection like bronchitis or pneumonia. These infections can cause inflammation in the airways and lungs, leading to the symptoms you're experiencing.

    • Treatment: Typically involves rest, fluids, and possibly antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected. A healthcare provider may recommend a chest X-ray or other tests.

  • COVID-19 or Flu: Given the current health climate, these are also possibilities. Symptoms can include fever, body aches, cough, and difficulty breathing.

    • Treatment: Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms. Testing is important for confirmation.

  • Asthma or COPD Exacerbation: Although you haven't been diagnosed with these, smoking can contribute to respiratory issues that mimic these conditions.

    • Treatment: Inhalers or other medications prescribed by a healthcare provider.

What you can do

  1. Seek Medical Attention: It's important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible, especially given the severity of your symptoms.
  2. Rest and Hydrate: Ensure you get plenty of rest and drink fluids to help your body fight off any potential infection.
  3. Avoid Smoking: Try to avoid smoking, as it can worsen your symptoms.
  4. Monitor Symptoms: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, and share this information with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

  • Worsening Symptoms: If your breathing becomes more difficult or your chest pain increases, seek immediate medical attention.
  • High Fever: If you develop a high fever or chills, this could indicate a more serious infection.
  • Persistent Symptoms: If your symptoms do not improve with rest and hydration, consult a healthcare provider.

Remember, this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

Show More

1
 Hugs
0
 Comments

Save

3 mo ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Acute Bronchitis: Best OTC Treatments

Tylenol Extra Strength Acetaminophen Rapid Release Gels
Tylenol Extra Strength Acetaminophen Rapid Release Gels
Advil Liqui-Gels Pain Reliever and Fever Reducer
Advil Liqui-Gels Pain Reliever and Fever Reducer

People Also Ask

What are the common symptoms of a respiratory infection like bronchitis or pneumonia?

Common symptoms of a respiratory infection such as bronchitis or pneumonia include chest pain, difficulty breathing, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, headache, fever, and body aches. These symptoms result from inflammation and infection in the airways and lungs.

How can smoking affect respiratory health and contribute to symptoms like chest pain and difficulty breathing?

Smoking can damage the lungs and airways, leading to inflammation and increased mucus production. This can cause symptoms like chest pain, difficulty breathing, wheezing, and coughing. Smoking also increases the risk of respiratory infections and chronic conditions like COPD.

What are the differences between COVID-19 and the flu in terms of symptoms?

COVID-19 and the flu share symptoms such as fever, cough, body aches, and difficulty breathing. However, COVID-19 may also cause loss of taste or smell, and symptoms can be more severe and prolonged. Testing is necessary to distinguish between the two.

When should someone with chest pain and difficulty breathing seek immediate medical attention?

Immediate medical attention is necessary if chest pain becomes more severe, breathing becomes increasingly difficult, or if there are signs of a high fever or chills, as these could indicate a serious condition requiring urgent care.

Similar Stories

[29F] With persistent cough and breathing difficulties

[22F] Experiencing chest pain and dizziness

[45F] With sharp lung pain and other symptoms

Preview

Post

No comments yet

Be the first one to comment

Share your feedback

All Stories

Similar Stories

[29F] With persistent cough and breathing difficulties

[22F] Experiencing chest pain and dizziness

[45F] With sharp lung pain and other symptoms

Experiencing symptoms?

Our AI will conduct a medical interview and assess what might be happening. You can also make a post afterwards.

Share your feedback