What is the reason for experiencing a rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath after COVID-19 infection?

Question

Hi doctor,

I had COVID-19 a month ago, followed by bacterial bronchitis for which I have been treated with antibiotics and the treatment was stopped two weeks ago). However, I still have problems with any physical effort (even just walking or climbing two flights of stairs), pounding, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath (I feel like I can never get enough air in my lungs), and dizziness. In addition, my mother, brother, and sister all have developed asthma after pulmonary infections (pneumonia, COVID - 19) at different points in their lives. What is happening? Is a consultation necessary, or Will it eventually go away?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

In my opinion, you should get pulmonary function test (PFT) done to rule out asthma and bronchitis. PFT (pulmonary function test) will also tell you about the severity of the disease, and treatment is based on severity only. You may need to inhale bronchodilators and corticosteroids for the test.

I hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. I wish you good health. Thanks.