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What Causes Shortness Of Breath?

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Posted on Thu, 13 Oct 2016
Question: I am very short of breath. I have used all my medications to their prescribed limit: including my inhalers and my nebulizer. I am coughing more than usual. I am getting kinda panicky.
Should I go to the hospital?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Shashi Dangwal (56 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
You seem to be having acute exacerbation and may need to visit a hospital.

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXXX

Though you have not mentioned but I presume you have asthma/COPD and at present you are having acute exacerbation of your symptoms.

If your routine medicines and inhalers are not effective in controlling your symptoms it`s better you visit a hospital as you may require a short course of injectable/oral steroids, nebulization and other supportive treatment.

If you are a smoker I suggest you stop smoking. One thing about inhalers-you have to take them regularly and not on as required basis.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Shashi Dangwal (21 minutes later)
Thank you. I am not a smoker. I am pretty sure I have asthma/COPD though I still have a couple of tests to take, i.e.; pulmonary function test.

I have these episodes fairly frequently now and it is always a big decision whether or not to go to the hospital; especially since the nearest hospital is so far away.

Thank you again for answering my question.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Shashi Dangwal (7 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Do undergo a compete medical check PFT.

Detailed Answer:

Thank you XXXXXXX Do undertake a full checkup including a PFT and consult a pulmonologist. With proper medication and correct inhalers asthma/COPD symptoms are very well controlled.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Shashi Dangwal

Pulmonologist

Practicing since :1979

Answered : 1157 Questions

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What Causes Shortness Of Breath?

Brief Answer: You seem to be having acute exacerbation and may need to visit a hospital. Detailed Answer: Hello XXXXXXX Though you have not mentioned but I presume you have asthma/COPD and at present you are having acute exacerbation of your symptoms. If your routine medicines and inhalers are not effective in controlling your symptoms it`s better you visit a hospital as you may require a short course of injectable/oral steroids, nebulization and other supportive treatment. If you are a smoker I suggest you stop smoking. One thing about inhalers-you have to take them regularly and not on as required basis.