possible misdiagnosis??

i quit smoking two months ago. i have been exercising and cough a little every so often. my mother took me to the doc and he prescribed prednisone and biaxin. i feel that i do not need this as have never had asthma or any lung problems and my cough is just my lungs cleaning themselves out as a result of my previous smoking habit. any suggestions would be much appreciated

[Dr Rajput]

Hi, welcome to the forum, your symptoms are suggestive of Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. There may be underlying bronchial asthma or chronic bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis usually presents with sputum (mucus), symptoms can be worsened by chest infections.

A test with bronchodilators for 2-3 weeks will be useful to relieve the symptoms. Respiratory function tests before and after exercise is required.

Other possibilities are central airway obstruction, parenchymal pulmonary disease, gastro esophageal reflux, coronary heart disease etc.  

Treatment with Beta-agonists with or without Cromoglycates and Inhaled glucocorticoids against prescription will help. Oral Prednisone may not be needed at this moment; hence, second opinion from respiratory physician may be needed. Biaxin is useful if there is presence of infection. I suggest you to consult physician. Take care and regards.