New Persistent Breathing Problem

Hello, Several years ago I was diagnosed with “mild” adult asthma which never caused any significant or long term problems for me until recently.   On February 12th (this year) I came down with a viral respiratory cold that sent me to the ER three days later for breathing difficulty (no relief from my rescue inhaler).   I had never experienced a breathing complication like that before and it put me in a panic attack during that time.   The ER doctor determined my problem was asthma related accompanied with tachycardia (120-130 bpm) for undetermined reasons.   The tachycardia eventually went away after a few days; however, the breathing issues continued.      My family doctor believed that my cold virus triggered adult-reactive airway disease and I was prescribed a bunch of medications (Prednisone, Dulera, Aciphex, Zyrtec, cough suppressants, and Ativan/Klonopin).   The antianxiety medication seemed to help my breathing in the beginning, but I hardly notice the effects anymore.  After badgering my doctor several more times about my persistent breathing issues, I was prescribed a nebulizer and referred to see a lung specialist.   The nebulizer seems to help but the effects don’t last; maybe this is because I’m 31 and my neb doses (1.25mg) are recommended for children ages 2-12.   Unfortunately, I have to wait another week before I see the lung specialist.     I’ve noticed that stimulation (TV, people, shopping, etc.), stress/anxiety, and foods with strong aromas trigger my symptoms almost immediately.   At times, I found myself overly sensitive.   For example, I had problems with the bread aroma inside Subway and I frequently have symptom issues from just watching TV.   In additional, I also have nasal airway swelling   that’s been present since being sick in February and has not gone away.   I’m not sure if it’s due to the side effects of medication I’m taking or part of my asthma symptoms. My symptoms include: -Chest tightness/heavy -Short of breath/shallow -Nasal stuffy/swelling (this one is really bothersome for me and does not go away) -Throat narrowing/tightness - Dry cough -Fatigued When my breathing becomes worse these symptoms also occur: -Neck, lips, fingers tingly -Foggy thoughts/difficulty recalling things in my mind -Lightheaded/“buzzed” -Everything slows down -Cold -Shaky/startled easy Sometimes my breathing complication is persistent throughout the entire day, while other days it’s more like a rollercoaster.   I’m always thinking about my symptoms and how I’m breathing.   I’m unable to focus on something without thinking about them. I believe this is making me feel even worse.   Does this sound like an asthma flare-up that’s just not controlled or something more? Thanks for all your help!

although, to me, it sounds like an asthma flare up not really under control but you just can't be safe enough! again, good luck :D

no problem. good luck with your specialist and have a splendid day!

I am newly diagnosed myself and still in denial. I hope you get some answers. My symptoms came after a long winter of being ill. I have a cough but it is wet and wheezing.

Take care

Katie