shortness of breath

[jbull99]

My husband is a 44 year old male. He has been experiencing a sore throat, shortness of breath,dizziness,watery eyes and a unproductive cough.  This has been going on for a month now.  Do you have any ideas of what could be wrong with him?

[National Jewish]

Shortness of breath and an unproductive cough could be due to a lung or heart problem.  Other possible causes are allergy, infection, irritation or all of these.  Many viral infections, most notably the flu, can cause irritation of the airways of the lungs.  This irritation can cause a cough that lasts for 3 to 6 months.  In a person who has a normal chest x-ray and who doesn’t smoke the common causes of cough are postnasal drip, a chronic sinus problem, heartburn, and asthma.  An unproductive cough can also be a side effect of a group of medicines used to treat high blood pressure called angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors.

Since your husband’s shortness of breath and unproductive cough are continuing, his doctor should see him to find out the nature of the problem and the best treatment.  A pulmonologist would be the type of specialist to identify a lung problem or if there is a heart problem and the best treatment.

[starion]

Hi!  There are many possible causes, but he surely needs to see a doctor & get a thorough check up.  It be allergies, stubborn infection, or other causes, but since it's persisted for a month, he should be checked out.

It may help if he diaries when the shortness of breath is worse & when it improves (if ever).  His regular family physician would be a good place to start.  He can be referred as needed afterwards.

Trying to guess why he is having shortness of breath would not be productive without more information.
Aloha,
Starion