Suggest treatment for weird sensation in chest and shortness of breath
Patient: Hi, Basically I was on a plane earlier this week travelling home, when I got a funny feeling in my chest. At first i thought it was a heart attack, but as I didn't collapse or get any ther symptoms, I presummed not. The problem has persisted, and it feels like a shortness of breath and tightness in my chest. I read up on the problem, and it says it could be a collapsed lung, or Primary spontaneous pneumothorax. I read the cause, and it says it is common in males, young, smokers and can start from a change in atmospheric pressure. I am 21, male, a smoker (sorry, I know, trying to give up), and the plane would explain this. I was wondering if you could give me some advice, as I don't really have lots of free time to visit a doctors, as I have a disserttation in in 2 weeks. Thanks! Doctor: Hello ! Yes pneumothorax is definitely one of the possibilities . However it is not the only possiblity.  Since you mentioned shortness of breath and chest tightness, even bronchial asthma is a possibility.  Have your ever had similar episodes in the past ? Problems related to your heart cannot be ruled out just coz you din't collapse. The oxygen levels drop in the higher altitude so your shortness of breath could have been a response to that as well.You need to be examined by a physician in person . You will need a Chest X ray , ECG , Spirometry (pre and post bronchodilator) for basic cardiorespiratory evaluation.  Treatment needs to be decided based on your final diagnosis . Do not miss to consult coz if it's a pneumothorax(air getting collected around your lungs) it needs to be drained. So do book an appointment with your physician at the earliest.Do quit smoking too ! Your health needs priority.