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I feel suffocated and anxious while outdoors. Is this due to the mask that I wear?

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Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a chronic DM type 2 patient with hypertension and hypothyroidism. I have a history of TIA in the past. Off late, I can say with the start of Corona, while outdoors, I feel very suffocating, weak, and anxious. I think it may be due to wearing masks. I do not feel such problems at home. Some water and biscuits help a little. Kindly guide, as this condition has compelled me to leave my job.

I am currently on medications for diabetes, hypothyroidism, hypertension, blood thinner, and a tranquilizer.
Answered by Dr. Sanya Dhingra

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sanya Dhingra is a dedicated General Practitioner with extensive years of clinical experience. She is passionate about working closely with patients, providing comprehensive care for a wide range of health conditions. Dr. Dhingra focuses on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and preventive healthcare to promote overall well-being. Her patient-centered approach ensures compassionate, holistic, and quality medical care for individuals across all age groups.

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Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern. I can see that you have not monitored your TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) levels for quite some time now. So please get your TSH, HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin) levels checked. Kindly follow up with reports and Levothyroxine's dosage and oral hypoglycemic agents that you are currently prescribed to.

Yes, the suffocation could be due to a mask, for which you can change to an N95 mask with a respirator. This should help. Also, you need to get an ECG (electrocardiography) done and echocardiography if required after the ECG.

You have to focus on weight loss. For that, you will have to reduce the carbohydrates in your diet. This will help lower your glucose levels and ultimately help you with your metabolic syndrome and overall symptoms improvement.

You can follow up for dietary advice if you feel the need. Regular brisk walking for 40 minutes, for five days a week, is necessary.

Investigations to be done

Serum TSH. HbA1c. ECG. Serum lipid profile.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Vinodhini J.
Published At November 17, 2020
Reviewed At January 19, 2024

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sanya Dhingra is a dedicated General Practitioner with extensive years of clinical experience. She is passionate about working closely with patients, providing comprehensive care for a wide range of health conditions. Dr. Dhingra focuses on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and preventive healthcare to promote overall well-being. Her patient-centered approach ensures compassionate, holistic, and quality medical care for individuals across all age groups.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vinodhini J. is a Dental Surgeon with extensive years of clinical experience. She specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and oral health issues, including restorative, surgical, and cosmetic procedures. With a patient-centered approach, she focuses on maintaining oral health, alleviating discomfort, and enhancing smiles. Her expertise ensures comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s dental needs and overall wellbeing.

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Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Sanya Dhingra
Dr. Sanya Dhingra

General Practitioner

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sanya Dhingra is a dedicated General Practitioner with extensive years of clinical experience. She is passionate about working closely with patients, providing comprehensive care for a wide range of health conditions. Dr. Dhingra focuses on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and preventive healthcare to promote overall well-being. Her patient-centered approach ensures compassionate, holistic, and quality medical care for individuals across all age groups.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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