Dr. Anshul Varshney
Internal Medicine
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Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I have been suffering from breathing issues for about two months. At that time, I was coming off Duloxetine HCl. I was also having weird headaches, but that has subsided. I have been to several doctors and had blood work, oxygen level test and pulmonary test. Everything came back normal. With my breathing, I have the constant urge to take a deep breath in hopes of getting that satisfying deep sigh. I am constantly thinking about my breathing, even when I sleep. I am still able to exercise vigorously, run long distances, etc., with no problems. My fear is that I am experiencing diaphragm weakness as a result of something neurological. Here are my questions. I have been placed on anxiety medicines, which have helped to keep me sane. What is your expert opinion? Does this sound like diaphragm weakness? Would I be able to exercise vigorously if my breathing muscles were weakening?
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com. We are here to help you. I have some questions that you need to answer. Since how long are you feeling breathing difficulty?Does your problem aggravate on waking or it comes any time, even at rest? Do you feel that you need to take deep breaths? How is your sleep? Ever did you wake up due to difficulty in breathing? If yes, then how did it settle?
Patient's Query
Thank you doctor,
I am having this problem for about two months. Breathing is fine in the mornings. The problem occurs at any time. I feel the urge to take deep breaths and looking for the satisfying deep breath. My sleep is uninterrupted. I do not wake up due to difficulty in breathing.
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com. Your description fits into a condition called as somatoform disorder. In this, one of the features is breathing difficulty. As per your description, as well as normal reports, the diagnosis is very supportive as there isno actual pulmonary problem. Now, this is all anxiety and the best medicines in my clinical experience in such case is Escitalopram along with Oxazepam. I promise you will feel relieved within a week with these drugs if my diagnosis is right based on your symptoms. I would recommend a psychologist consultation for a better relief.
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Internal Medicine
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