What COULD be going on?

I am a 52 yr old woman, lifetime NON-Smoker, no known risk factors other than second-hand smoke. I was told by a Radiologist following a CT Scan 2 yrs ago for something else, that I have Emphysema. My regular Physician, after checking my lungs and oxygen level, said that she felt the diagnosis was actually an "over-read" by the Radiologist.

Approximately 10 weeks ago, I had what I thought was a short episode of a cold that never progressed to major symptoms. I did develop a cough and congestion in my lungs. About 3.5 weeks ago, I finally went to a new doctor (just relocated to Texas a few months ago) and was told that I had Bronchitis and possible Asthma. Was put on Advair and Allegra D.  I developed mouth sores, oral thrush and bleeding gums, as either part of the "virus" I have been told I have, or from the inhaler. I went off the inhaler, at Dr's Nurses suggestion. Two times in 3.5 weeks I have called to report that I still have congestion and am coughing, and two times I have been told to call in a few days if things are not better. No chest film has been done to r/o other causes.

Along with what sounds like a wheezing cough, I have left side chest pain and trouble breathing when walking long distances and up stairs. I am reluctant to call the doctor's office again. All they tell me is that I have a virus and have to be patient. I suspect more than a virus at this point. What do you think?

[National Jewish]

It appears that "being patient" is not helping to either diagnose the problem or take care of your symptoms. In this one note you have mentioned emphysema, bronchitis, asthma, a "cold", and a "virus infection"!! It is impossible to tell from this note what you do have. But what is clear is that something is going on and is causing you problems. I would suggest seeking out a pulmonary specialist who should, in short order, be able to tell you what is going on and what to do about it.

[JeannieM]

Just an update:  I was released yesterday from the hospital after a 4 day stay. It was discovered Wednesday of this past week, after I INSISTED that I be seen at the doctor's office, that I had a pleural effusion of the left lung, with about 3/4's of the lung filled with fluid. No wonder I was having trouble breathing, etc.  

Had fluid drained and is being tested for different things. Cancer, a real concern, was basically already ruled out - no cells in the fluid showed up. Also, no pneumonia. So, we are eliminating things as they test for them. I WAS in an accident in late August, where I slammed my left chest area against the drivers seat in the van (no, I was NOT wearing a seatbelt, which is highly unusual for me) when we stopped suddenly on a decline to avoid hitting a deer that darted in the van's path. I went to seek medical treatment the next day when I had trouble breathing and was in terrible pain, with muscle spasms, etc. From there is is a long story, but MIGHT be tied in with what is happening now. I have had two inflammations of the chest wall since that time.

Just wanted to thank you for your answer and to let you know what is going on.