What Causes Persistent Cough While Treating Asthma?

Posted on Mon, 28 Aug 2017

Question: I am a 71 year old female. I have asthma, usually related to exercizing. I have had an infection in my lungs and was treated with an antibiotic. I developed a cough and had nasal discharge. After 2 weeks, I still have cough and discharge and a pain in the middle left of my back. Could anything be related to my heart? The reason I ask is after just a little movement, like walking, going up stairs, I am out of breathe.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Jolanda (32 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
the problem could be stomach related too

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for asking HealthcareMagic,

I can understand your concerns,

As you explain the history theoretically concerning the lungs now you are healthy.

Don't worry about the cough and shortness of breath. Sometimes asthmatic patients develop a cough for a long period. For this, you can use your steroid inhalers (if you have them, like Fluticasone twice).

I don't think the pain might be related to the lungs, but even to the heart completely. As you explain the history, probably stomach problems, like reflux?

For excluding the heart issues, an ECG, an echocardiogram and cardiac enzymes help a lot. If they are positive we can say yes it's the heart causing this back pain and your cardiologist will advise you further.

If they are negative then stomach problems are likely and Omeprazole orally once daily capsule before breakfast may help.

I wish you a fast recovery.

Take care and feel free to ask me again

Regards

Dr.Jolanda

Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee