What Causes Shallow Breathing And Sore Throat When Suffering From COPD?

Posted on Mon, 9 Jun 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 9 Jun 2014 Answered on

Mon, 30 Jun 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I have COPD and for the past four weeks now I can't stop the cough. I'm using Spiriva, Ventolin (with a spacer), trying deep breathing but I can't manage the cough. Im not getting enough oxygen and Im constantly shallow breathing. Also, my throat is getting sore. I don't know if this is the cough? I have lupus and am allergic to most antibiotics.

Answered by Dr. Shashi Dangwal (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
It could be an infection or worsening of COPD.

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXXX

There could be few reasons for your persistent cough. These could be:

1. Progression of your COPD by itself thus resulting in persistent symptoms.

2. Acute exacerbation of COPD which is generally as a result of some infection.

3. Since you have lupus, your lungs may be getting involved and lupus pneumonia is a known condition.

You need to get into a hospital or consult a pulmonologist. You should take a complete health check which should include routine blood tests, sputum examination and tests for lupus. You also have to have a blood gas analysis to know the oxygen levels.

You will need a course of broad spectrum antibiotics to which you are not allergic, a course of oral steroids, nebulization, inhalers and continuous oxygen therapy.

Chest physiotherapy and deep breathing exercises will help.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D