My husband has had pain in his chest not cardiac related for quite some time now. He just recently had a chest X-ray done to rule out pneumonia. It was clear. Each time he sees a physician he is told to quit smoking and sent out the door. His chest pops and cracks when he stretches. We just noticed this evening that his left collar bone is swelled and raised higher than the right side. He obviously needs seen but is there something we can say to the physician that will get them to actually do something? Our local is less than desirable.
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. In my opinion, you should consult pulmonologist for him. Possibility of bronchitis is more in his case. Bronchitis is common in smokers. It causes inflammatory reaction in airways. And this is the reason for all symptoms. So consult pulmonologist and get done clinical examination of respiratory system and PFT (Pulmonary Function Test). PFT will also tell you about severity of the disease and treatment of bronchitis is based on severity only. He may need inhaled bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroid (ICS). Don't worry, he will be alright. First diagnose him and then start appropriate treatment. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wishing good health to your husband. Thanks.