I have been having tightness in my chest for a couple of months now. At times if feels like I have so much pressure. I am constantly cleaing my throat from post nasal drip, if I take a deep breath it feels much better. I have also been having a lot of post nasal drip in the back of my throat that is rather thick. I have read this could be because of allergies, asthma, or GERD. I have noticed lately when I am at work and walk up the stairs I am breathing pretty heavy when I get to my desk. I do not wheeze or anything, just shortness of breath at times. Could this be asthma? Any info would be great!! I am 25 and never experienced this until now.
-Kerry

Kerry, please visit your doctor. Each person will have different symptoms from Asthma.

For example... I'm a "cougher", other people experience wheezing and still others just feel tired.

You are definately experiencing some type of respitory distress but only a professional can really tell you what it is.

Thanks for your reply. What type of doctor should I go see? An asthma or pulmonary doctor? My Allergy doctor does not test for asthma.
Thanks again!
-Kerry

I'm from Canada so we have to go to our GP (General Practicioner) who then refers us to a specialist.

I couldn't tell you who to see in the States but your regular Doc should have an idea of how serious your situation is and work from there.

I have shortness of breath too. I went to my GO and I'm on a medication regime which helps, but any exertion is tough on me, but at least I can breathe deeper. I smoked for many years when I was young, but for the last 9 or 10 years these symptoms [short of breath]have come on slowly. I have not smoked in almost 20 years, but have damage anyway. You can see your GP; that's what I did. I'm just not ready for a Pulmonary Specialist. I don't want the hassle. I feel I have COPD and asthma and just deal with it. Your doctor can probably help you.
Joy

I was diagnosed with COPD...chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (emphysemia.
I had not smoked in years but slowly became short of breath doing normal everyday tasks.

By all means see your doctor. I was lucky, my COPD is mild & restricted to upper lungs. However, unlike some cases of asthma, you cannot outgrow it.

Breathing is anecessity in order to enjoy life. Please see your doctor!!!!!!!!

Bernice

------------------
BL

Kerry, I have similar things happening. I have heavy drainage down the back of my throat, and am always clearing. I'm sure to the extent of being disruptive in meetings. On certain mornings, it takes so much work clearing, just to get things somewhat cleared, that I'm worn out by the time I get to my office. I also have some trouble breathing... kindof in the sinuses, but same difficutly through the mouth too. Worse if I sit back, or lay on my back.

I have tried several meds. Claritin, tapering doses of Prednisone. etc. etc. Nothing has any effect on the drainage whatsoever. Only Guafinisin helps to thin it a bit.

Been to two allergists.... not allergic to anything. Had a pollup removed and a nose bone opened up ... no help.

Finaly, the ENT (ear nose throat) anounced "you're an anomoly". So that is helpfull to know <s>. The PCP (Primary Care) thinks I am allergic to changes in the weather. Ok, that seems to be true.

My new PCP thinks I may be having some acid reflux where the acid rises, then I breath some into my lungs. He says that can mimic asthma.

I tried a prescription called Protonix, once a day (morning) for a week, and Flovent inhailer. Felt like a new man. Ran out of it now.... going back for my next appointment to tell him something is working.

He thought I may have just a touch of Exersized Induced Asthma. Sometimes the cold air contributes.

Thanks John for your post! It was very helpful.
Take care,
Kerry