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Respiratory Disorders (Expert Forum)
Breathing problems, but very confused
Answered by
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Breathing problems, but very confused
by myproblem, Aug 29, 2006 12:00AM
I am a 30 year old female. Last year I was diagnosed with RLD (Restrictive Lung Disease), after an 11 year mis-diagnosis of Asthma. I also have MCTD (Mixed Connective Tissue Disease). The RLD is part of this, as well as MVP (Mitral Valve Prolapse). Other elements of the MCTD include Arthritis, Raynaud's Phenomenon, Vasculitis, and skin problems similar to discoid Lupus. My lung volume is about 40% less than predicted, and I often feel short of breath. I went to a pulmonologist, but he thought I was a hypochondriac since I don't "look" like I have an autoimmune disease, and my oxygen levels are usually around 97% (by finger pulse oximetry). I feel out of breath upon exertion, but also sometimes while doing nothing. I sometimes have chest pains, which I have always felt came from my lungs/airways. I also feel irregular heart rhythms at times, but had an ECHO to evaluate this, and re-examine my MVP last fall, and nothing unusual was found. I am currently 18 weeks pregnant, and the breathing trouble is really getting to me now. I bought my own pulse oximeter to monitor my levels at home since I disagreed with the pulmonologist. He told me that the shortness of breath must just be a "sensation" I was having, as if it were not real. And told me if I wanted to I could continue using Albuterol for it, even though 2 sets of Pulmonary Function Tests showed that it had no effect at all.
Here's the confusion, even when I feel out of breath, and am actually breathing loudly, and heavily, my oxygen level is coming up over 95%. I do find that my pulse runs a bit high.
Continued
Here's the confusion, even when I feel out of breath, and am actually breathing loudly, and heavily, my oxygen level is coming up over 95%. I do find that my pulse runs a bit high.
Continued
Doctor's Answer
by National Jewish, Aug 31, 2006 12:00AM
, Aug 31, 2006 12:00AM
An increase in pulse will not change your oxygen saturation. It will, however, increase the amount of oxygen delivered to your tissues, each minute. You should seek a second opinion from another pulmonologist. When you do, take your oximeter with you to compare it with his/hers.
Member Comments (4)
by myproblem, Aug 29, 2006 12:00AM
To: Continued
My pulse is seldom lower than 90, and goes up to about 112 or more at times. It frequently jumps or drops 10-15 points in seconds, and then changes again a few seconds later. I am a small person, 4'10", and 115 lbs. pre-pregnancy. I know that size does affect pulse, but does anyone else feel it is common to have such jumps in rate? Is it possible to have a "real" breathing problem, and have your body compensate for it with heartrate to the point that it doesn't show on pulse oximetry? Are there other things that can interfere with the oxygen readings? Any other advice/suggestions would be appreciated.
by Verysickman, Sep 01, 2006 12:00AM
To: myproblem
The oximeter is worthless for determining how difficult it is to breath. I have emphysema and COPD. My breathing feels almost normal while sitting and at rest and the oximeter reads between 94-96%. However, if I just bend over or lift something, I start gasping for air. Only a blood gas test while under load will show your "true" condition.
by myproblem, Sep 01, 2006 12:00AM
To: Verysickman
Thank you, that hasn't been offered to me. I will definately ask.
