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Respiratory Disorders (Expert Forum)
Chest Ache § Headache
Answered by
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Chest Ache § Headache
by tonym, Apr 30, 2003 12:00AM
Been living with emphysema for 10 years. Still working and able to do most things. Steps, inclines and carrying heavy items are a problem but, with only 26% lung capacity, my doctor tells me I do better and more than many people with twice my lung capacity. Use Combivent inhaler but do not need oxygen.
My problem for the past few years is I have occasional episodes of feeling that my chest is being squeezed (an ache not a pain), a constant headache, feeling tired and only slightly worsened breathing. These may last from 4 to 5 days. My pulmonary doctor is at a loss as to why.
Recently had a full A to Z coronary exam and I'm in good shape in that department.
Has anyone experienced these symptoms and/or found a cause and treatment?
Is there any possibility they can be caused by overdosing on the Combivent?
My problem for the past few years is I have occasional episodes of feeling that my chest is being squeezed (an ache not a pain), a constant headache, feeling tired and only slightly worsened breathing. These may last from 4 to 5 days. My pulmonary doctor is at a loss as to why.
Recently had a full A to Z coronary exam and I'm in good shape in that department.
Has anyone experienced these symptoms and/or found a cause and treatment?
Is there any possibility they can be caused by overdosing on the Combivent?
Doctor's Answer
by National Jewish, May 08, 2003 12:00AM
, May 08, 2003 12:00AM
I am uncertain about the cause(s) of your symptoms. Most of them could be caused by a lack of oxygen. The low oxygen could be due to a temporary decrease in function of one or more parts of your lung. It’s possible for these areas to be too small to be seen on the chest x-ray. Mucus can plug the airways and keep that part of the lung from working. Also atelectasis, where an area of the lung collapses and doesn’t get air, could keep a part of your lung from working.
The sensation of "my chest is being squeezed" is not a typical symptom. It could be caused by a combination of you working harder to breath and the muscles that you use for breathing not getting enough oxygen. The squeezing could also come from the heart not getting enough oxygen. It is good that you had your heart checked.
Here is my suggestion. Work with your doctor to make arrangements so that the next time that you have these symptoms you could have the following done:
· chest x-ray
· oximetry at rest
· oximetry at night during sleep
· oximetry with exercise
Oximetry is a device that measures the oxygen saturation of the blood using a sensor that clips to your finger or earlobe.
The sensation of "my chest is being squeezed" is not a typical symptom. It could be caused by a combination of you working harder to breath and the muscles that you use for breathing not getting enough oxygen. The squeezing could also come from the heart not getting enough oxygen. It is good that you had your heart checked.
Here is my suggestion. Work with your doctor to make arrangements so that the next time that you have these symptoms you could have the following done:
· chest x-ray
· oximetry at rest
· oximetry at night during sleep
· oximetry with exercise
Oximetry is a device that measures the oxygen saturation of the blood using a sensor that clips to your finger or earlobe.
