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What Causes Shortness Of Breath In A Non Smoker?
Question: Have acute asthma and was recently admitted to hospital for 3 days with acute asthma attack and iv steroids. Since then I have had shortness of breath with and without exertion. My doctor ordered a CTA to rule out Pulmonary Embolism which I do not have. Does the rest of my results on my CTA explain why I am having the shortness of breath. I am currently taking 4mg of Decadron 2x a day and doing 4 nebulizer treatments along with Advair 50/500. Just want to know why I am so short of breath. I have also never been a smoker.
Brief Answer:
Likely to be due to mucus plugs.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome and thanks for your query.
I understand your concern.
The atelectasis and air trapping are suggestive of mucus plugs obstructing the bronchi and bronchioles ( small air passages ) and this is the reason why you are still breathless in spite of the heavy doses of medicines.
Likely to be due to mucus plugs.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome and thanks for your query.
I understand your concern.
The atelectasis and air trapping are suggestive of mucus plugs obstructing the bronchi and bronchioles ( small air passages ) and this is the reason why you are still breathless in spite of the heavy doses of medicines.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Is there a way to clear this up so that I can breath better?
What is atelectasis?
What is atelectasis?
Brief Answer:
The following may be helpful
Detailed Answer:
Mucolytic ( mucus dissolving ) substances like Acetyl cysteine and bromexine along with chest physiotherapy would help. Drink plenty of warm fluids and avoid anti histamine or anything that dries up secretions.
Sometimes CPAP or even ventilation may be required.
Atelectasis is the collapse of alveoli , the small air spaces where gas exchanges occur in the lungs and is often due to block of the minute air passages.
The following may be helpful
Detailed Answer:
Mucolytic ( mucus dissolving ) substances like Acetyl cysteine and bromexine along with chest physiotherapy would help. Drink plenty of warm fluids and avoid anti histamine or anything that dries up secretions.
Sometimes CPAP or even ventilation may be required.
Atelectasis is the collapse of alveoli , the small air spaces where gas exchanges occur in the lungs and is often due to block of the minute air passages.
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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