hi im a 42 yr old female, smoke between half pack and pack a day.  recently am getting over bad bout of pneumonia that was presented with horrible pleurisy pain.  After round of antibiotics chest xray is normal, does not show signs of copd but I was still having pleurisy pain.  Now I am in the middle of a steroid treatment pack and the pain is better and my energy is returning.  But...if I go out into the cold air and then come inside I have horrible coughing attacks, wheeze, chest feels tight and its like I cant catch my air.   I have a rescue inhaler but it doesnt seem to help; takes about 20-30 min for me to recover and afterwards, I dont feel well.  Any ideas?  I am under reg drs care....thanks
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. Since you are a heavy smoker, we should definitely rule out bronchitis in your case.You're all symptoms (wheezing, chest tightness, coughing) are suggestive of bronchitis. 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 need inhaled bronchodilators (formoterol or albuterol) and inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) (budesonide or fluticasone). And quit smoking as soon as possible. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.