Lower back pain, bloated stomach, shortness of breath. Pneumonia ruled out after chest x-ray. Respiratory infection?
Patient: Hi, I have had lower back pain/inflammation for about 8 weeks, whilst this has eased somewhat and the muscles are less tight there is still a pull if I arch my back. More worrying is my stomach seems to fill up with air when I exert my body -like walking up a hill or stairs and I find difficullty in getting a deep breath/or shortness of breath. Been to a GP, sending me for xrays for chest and back, she thinks I have a respiratory infection of some sort, but has ruled out pluercy or pneumonia . Would this and or the back problen be causing my shortness of breath? Doctor: Hi Ray, Welcome to healthcare magic!  Backache is not known to cause shortness of breath or any breathing problem. I think you are not a habitual walker, if you are new to start on exercises then you will have this kind of exertion related breathlessness. Do not walk uphill in the start. Start walking at plains first and walk about 4-5 kilometers a day, later when you build stamina, start having jogging. Avoid stairs and uphill running. They are not good exercises rather put more load on body. I hope this advise would be helpful for you.  Still if you have any queries or doubts, please write me back,  I would be happy to solve them.  Wish you a great health!