Hi. I have been ill with mild chest congestion, intermittent cough that does not produce mucus, and fatigue, since mid October and we are now into January. I have had an echo cardiogram and stress test and pulmonary function test. I can take in and exhale a full breath, it just hurts to do so. I passed the stress test well. I can run, but I don t have the energy to do so and breathing becomes more difficult. I was given a zpak and inhaler that did nothing. I have no idea where to go from here and my doctor seems to be stumped. She offered another chest x-ray, but with no change in my symptoms I d expect the x-ray to show the same results (no signs of pneumonia). Thanks.
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. If your x-ray is normal, then it could be bronchitis. Usually diagnosis is done by PFT, I do not know if it was interpreted for you. It will also tell you about severity of the disease and treatment of bronchitis is based on severity only. You may need inhaled bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroid (ICS). Inhalers take at least 2 weeks with a correct technique to show effects. If you are still concerned talk to your doc about CT scan sometimes XR a may not be conclusive.Don't worry, you will be alright. Hope I have solved your query. Wish you good health. Thanks.