Does chronic chest tightness at 23 mean bronchial asthma?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 23-year-old female. For almost a month, I have been experiencing tightness in my chest, itchiness in my throat, and I feel there is something stuck in my throat. I am currently taking Zykast for throat itchiness. I also have a health history of asthma and allergies.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

As you have mentioned, you are worried about your symptoms. Considering your history and previous symptoms, you may be having asthma as well as pharyngitis at present. I would still advise you to conduct some investigations to confirm the diagnosis. If you have asthma, I will prescribe you inhalational medication because they are the best possible medication available for the treatment of asthma. Also, I would like to know if there are any factors resulting in an increase in your symptoms.

The investigations to be done are X-ray chest posteroanterior (PA) view, spirometry with bronchodilator reversibility testing. The probable diagnosis is bronchial asthma. The treatment plan includes (Formoterol 6 mcg + Budesonide 200 mcg) Inhaler with spacer, two puffs twice daily, and can be taken up to four times daily if required. Continue Zykast. The preventive measures include avoiding exposure to allergens and smoking. Take a nutritious diet and adequate rest. PEFR (peak expiratory flow rate) monitoring. Follow-up to be done with investigations, and then whenever required.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.