Hi. I had pneumonia really bad and didn t find it at first. They found fluid around the heart and than pneumonia after going to the emergency room and being hospitalized for 8 days but didn t feel better. I had to get the fluid drained and was done a month later and still had shortness of breathe real bad and treated me again in the Hospital for 8 days. Came out of hospital and still wasn t better. Than my lung doctor gave me steroids 12 day plan which I feel better, a lot less heaviness in my chest. Got the shortness of breathe is still there and can t do anything? What can I do to help With my breathing ?
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. By your history and description, possibility of post infectious (pneumonia) bronchitis is more likely. So better to consult pulmonologist and get done clinical examination of respiratory system and PFT (Pulmonary Function Test).PFT will not only diagnose bronchitis, but it will also tell you about severity of the disease and treatment is based on severity only. You will mostly improve with inhaled bronchodilators (formoterol or albuterol) and inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) (budesonide or fluticasone).Don't worry, you will be alright with all these. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.