Hi my husband is 40 fit and active and experiencing shortness of breath and tightness in his chest whicChatDoctore on suddenly a few months ago. He has seen a cardiologist and has had his lungs tested both showing no issues. What else could be causing these symptoms?
Hello dear, thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. Since his cardiac and pulmonary tests are normal, chest tightness and breathlessness can be seen in HERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). It is due to laxity of gastroesophageal sphincter. Because of this the acid of the stomach tends to come up in the esophagus and cause the symptoms. So better to follow these steps for symptomatic relief. 1. Avoid hot and spicy food. 2. Avoid stress and tension. 3. Avoid large meals, instead take frequent small meals. 4. Start Proton pump inhibitors. 5. Go for walk after meals. 6. Keep 2 - 3 pillows under head in bed to prevent reflux. 7. Avoid alcohol and smoking if he is having these habits