I've had an upper respiratory problem for a week or so with hard coughing, wheezing in throat, itchy feeling in throat and upper chest, and a lot of nasal congestion. (I suspect allergy and/or sinus.)

The cough is the worst thing - it takes up to 10 hacks to dislodge what needs to come up. This has really taken its toll on me; I feel pretty droopy.

For the last couple of days, if I go downstairs and back up again or make a quick trip to another room and back to my recliner, my heart rate accelerates to the point that one would suppose I had been running the Boston Marathon. The rate declines to normal when I am just sitting or am moving at a normal pace around my home.

Has anyone else had this experience? What do you make of it?

For the record, I'm not taking any medication for my upper respiratory problem other than aspirin.

The only meds I take regularly are Inderal (to avoid high blood pressure; originally prescribed for migraines) and Armour Thyroid (hypothyroidism).

It sounds like you have bronchitis. The elevated heart rate happens b/c your lungs are compromised so your body has to work harder when you exert yourself, so your heart has to pump faster. You need to see a doctor, and you might need antibiotics.

Thanks so much for your input. I checked bronchitis symptoms on the 'net and I do have a couple of those mentioned. What you say makes sense to me.

Fortunately, in the last couple of days, the accelerated heart rate has become a thing of the past. I returned to work today and had no problems though my work is fairly physical. Possibly, I am getting over this without medical intervention, however, if I experience further problems I will defintely be seeing my doctor. I have an appointment with him for a 6 months checkup in a couple of weeks in any event.

Again, thanks.