tightness while breathing

[twisteroats]

hi, i have had asthma for about 15 years now; however, in the past week, i have noticed a new sensation of tightening/constricting of my upper chest / trachea. I dont know if this is possible, but it doesnt feel like the same sensation i get from wheezing, however it is difficult to move air and has resulted in a dry annoying cough.  There is also the constant sensation of having a tickle in the back of my throat. This also hasn't been resolved with the use of albuerol, which also leads me to believe that it is not my asthma acting up. any ideas on what this could be or something to do about it.

[allmymarbles]

If you have my problem, this will help. I keep liquid Benadryl (the stuff kids use) in the house. When I feel my throat tighten I drink some cold water. Then I take a sip of Benadryl, wait, and take another sip. This relieves me and I usually cough up some gunk. What I think has happened is that I have eaten something I am allergic to and that my throat and the epiglottis have become swollen. Using liquid Benadryl is a topical treatment.

[bsmsl]

There could be several things.  You could be in a flare meaning that albuterol is less effective and will require multiple times doses before you see improvement.  This would be my first course of action.

Other options would be acid reflux.  Acid reflux is often miss diagnosed as asthma.  You should discus this with your doctor if you don't see improvement after a few days of following your rescue inhaler prescriptions directions at maximum dosage (around the clock).

Another thought would be the possibility of vocal cord dysfunction (VCD).  The tightness you are experiencing could actually be in the throat and referred to the chest area.  This would also be worth discussing with your dr.

Feel better soon.