Three and a half months ago I became ill and so far have not received a diagnosis.  My lungs  have bothered me throughout with a range of symptoms including SOB, heaviness and tightness, discomfort in my sternal area, feeling the need to cough, or even a burning sensation that radiates throughout my chest.  These have come and gone in severity.  The most bothersome symptom is a constant feeling that my lungs are hyper inflated or that I cannot get all the air out.  I have had chest x rays that have showed \"hyperinflation\" and a PFT that showed mild restriction. What could be causing this constant feeling of over inflation and what can I do?
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. In my opinion, you are mostly having bronchitis. Hyperinflation on chest x-ray and mild restriction in PFT report are more suggestive of bronchitis. And your symptoms are also seen in bronchitis. So better to consult pulmonologist and get done clinical examination of respiratory system. You should start inhaled bronchodilator (formoterol or albuterol) and inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) (budesonide or fluticasone). Quit smoking if you are smoker. Don't worry, you will be alright with inhaled treatment. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.