Chest Annoyance

[tcr1983]

I am a 23 year old male that has smoked off and on for the past 8 years.I just recently quit ten monthes ago, smoking on few occassions where I gave in.At the end of 2005 I went to the doctors due to some congestion where they prescribe an anti-biotic.After the doctor's visit I went on vacation to Bulgaria in the first week of 06.This discomfort continued so I visited a Bulgarian Doctor where he administered an x-ray and something was noticed in my lungs.He believed it was just an infection and explained the lung cancer is unusual at my age.After taking the antibiotic and returning home I still had the same discomfort/feeling of congestion.I returned to my physician where they perscribed a medicine to help with the congestion,a steroid inhaler,a albuteral inhaler, and I did a nebulizer (not sure how to spell this).After the nebulizer I felt better. I took the decogesting medicine and use the inhalers as perscribed. On Jan. 24 2006 I got a gym membership and performed excercises with no difficulty. Running up to 4 and five miles on the tread mill with other weight excercises.Not once while attending the gym did I have any difficults breathing or pains,but still occasionally had this congested feeling in chest and a lump when swallowing. At sometimes I do not notice this feeling, changes in posture or air can bring it back or seem worse.I just recently went back to my doctor and had an x-ray again.I am waiting on the results, but figured I would get some more advice before I get the results.I also have a history of brochitis.I would just like to know thoughts on this matter.

[chewysidol]

I think that I have the same problem.  Although I don't smoke I do use chewing tobacco.  I am 6'4'' 290pds and I am very active I exercise vigorously 5 time s a week, the reason for my weight is I like to eat.  The reason I am responding is I notice sometimes I feel like I am short of breath, what I mean is I look down at my breathing and it is low and I feel that I should be breathing more or I am not getting enough oxygen.  I usually have a feeling of discomfort in my chest but I do suffer from anxiety and deepression so I understand that these can be psychological problems also.  The only time I ever feel totally at peace is when I am working out.  Please some body explain to me how I can workout hard by running 2 miles at 7.0 nostop, no chest pain or tiredenss or any chest discomfort at all, or workout with very heavy weights on my upper and lower body parts and have no problems whatsoever so why do I feel this way. I know Need to lose a more weight maybe this is the problem.  Also, I am on Lisinopril and Atenelol for High Blood Pressure which is under control.  Also, I notice this feeling sometimes whan I lie down sometimes my right side or my left side, I have been known for waking up gasping and this past summer I have developed asthma symptoms eventhough the doctor told me my lungs were clean I would wheeze at night sometimes.  I use to have sleep apnea but it went away because I used to weigh 380pds.  You tell me I don't know?

chewysidol

[tcr1983]

My x-ray came back clear. And the doctor put me on PREVACID believing that it may be acid reflux. I will check back with the doctor in a week or so if it persists and if there is no change. My Bp has been high the last few appointments and I would like to lower it. I have started by reducing my salt intake, I have a bad habit of over salting. Is there any other foods I should avoid and/or other actions I can take to lower my BP? I also am attempting to quit chewing tabacco. I used it as a way to quit smoking and obtained a new dependance. I have heard that chewing tabacco raises BP is this true? Thank you for your time.

[National Jewish]

It is hard to say whether the events of almost a year ago have any relationship to what is going on now.  It is possible, but also possible that these are unrelated symptoms.  It is a good idea to see your doctor and have a thorough examination.  It may be necessary to perform a breathing test to see if the congestion you are describing is still present and related to asthma or other type of reactive airways.  That is a good first step.