Narrowed airways

[Mrswalshy]

Every time i smell a strong odour my airways really narrow and i have to take a deep breath in to open them again. I don't have asthma, so what's causing this?

[Dr Rajput]

Hi, welcome to forum, your symptoms are generalized and needs a more detailed evaluation. The symptom you are having is known as dyspnea. The possibilities are Bronchospasm (bronchial asthma) or can be due to angioedema secondary to aeroallergen associated with the odor.

You need to undergo pulmonary function tests like spirometry and ECG to rule out other cardiac cause.

It is difficult to come to a certain diagnosis with available history. Stay away from such odor. Keep a bronchodilator inhaler with you against prescription, which can help you in such conditions. Further evaluation is needed. I suggest you to consult physician. Take care and regards.

[bsmsl]

You most likely have Reactive Airway Disease.  It is similar to asthma only there is no underliing inflamation.  Your airways react to certain triggers like strong odors.  Some people get nasal congestion with this and will pretreat with a nasal antihistamine before exposure.  

You should discus this with your doctor the next time you are in his/her office.  It sounds like you  have found a coping technique, but you may need more should your reactions become more severe or harder to get out of.  An inhaler may be a good idea to carry.

I hope that helps you some.  Take care.