What Does Breathlessness Indicate Despite Normal CT Tests And Reports?

Posted on Tue, 3 Oct 2017

Question: Having shortness of breath at slightest exertion (i.e. Walking and talking at same time). Tests and hospital stay lungs clear, pulmonology work-up, lung x-rays, pulmonary ct with and without XXXXXXX no problems. Blood tests normal (no anemia, diabetes, thyroid and such). Heart echocardiogram, ekg, Holter monitor, nuclear stress test, blood tests every four hours, all fine. Carotid ultra-sound good. Only meds synthroid, low aspirin. Have hernia and gallstones. Have hot and cold body temp bouts. Not outside temp fluctuations. Breathing issues seem to have worsened over last few months until finally worse each day. Extreme fatigue and weakness increasing. My p.c. Says I don't know...I am 68. I need help. My life has come to a standstill. Any ideas.

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (7 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Do you have stressful life?

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your question on HealthcareMagic.
I can understand your concern.
No need to worry for heart and lung diseases for your breathlessness as your extensive work up is normal.
Sometimes, undiagnosed stress and anxiety can also cause similar symptoms.
So please let me know
1. Do you have stressful life?
2. Have you ever consulted psychiatrist?
3. Which drugs you are taking at present? If want names of thyroid medication.
Please reply me answers of above asked questions, so that I can guide you better. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. Drkaushal85 (34 minutes later)

Doesn't everyone have a "stressful" life? Husband (since XXXXXXX 2015) shocked by 2400 volts at power plant where he works (March 2015) and received 3rd degree burns. 150 medical appointments for him in the last year alone. We know his survival is miraculous! Thank an electrician! They are heroes too! We have a committed spiritual life (God heals!), young grandchildren live next door, pet dog, cat and chickens, and friends. See a clinical psychologist who is beginning on a "marital therapy" period with us. We have a life. I only take asper-low and 112 mcg Levothyroxine. The animals, kids, friends, doctors, church, garden keep us moving. Yes I have had psychological counseling before for various life issues.

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (5 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Is your thyroid under control with current dosage?

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your follow up question on Healthcare Magic.
I can understand your concern.
Yes, we all are having some or other form of stress.
But the important part is how we deal with stress.
Please let me know
1. When did you check your thyroid function test recently?
2. Was it controlled with current dosage?
3. When did you meet psychologist lastly?
In my opinion, thyroid and stress related issues might be the cause. So asking above questions.
I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana

Follow up: Dr. Drkaushal85 (58 minutes later)

About 1 month ago for thyroid. Dose tiny bit low may be going to 115 after next test.Psychologist meeting a few days ago. Do I keep trying to push myself physically without clear understanding of problem? Considering gym swim. Will have a sleep study test soon too. Also surgeon sharpening scalpel for abdominal issues...actually robotics will be used. Just would like to be stronger before surgery to improve recovery. You have been most kind. If you think of anything else to explore please let me know. Also ENT will check swallow and sinus symptoms soon. May Jesus richly bless you. Your time and expertise is appreciated.

What you focus on you become sensitive to. What you don't focus on, you become insensitive to. So I check my focus...

I will consider your counseling suggestions for the issues of continuing recovery efforts and fighting the Workmen's Compensation system are taking a toll. My encouragement: Carry your own Disability Insurance!!! Lin

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (43 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Give more time in counselling and behavioral therapy.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your follow up question on Healthcare Magic.
I can understand your concern.
I respect your thoughts.
In my opinion, you should definitely give more time for counseling sessions and behavioral therapy.
Think positive and stay fit.
You can definitely push yourself as far as you can.
Hope I have solved your query. If you are not having further queries, then please close the conversation and rate my answer.
You can ask me directly on bit.ly/askdrkaushalbhavsar. Wish you good health. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana