Why is my breathing problem getting worse at age 19?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

As a 19-year-old female, your history of intermittent breathing difficulties suggests trigger factors. This is common in airway hyperresponsiveness, likely related to asthma or a variant such as exercise-induced or environmental asthma.

Your description of episodes with rapid breathing, air hunger, or transient cessation of breathing followed by temporary relief, along with partial response to Albuterol (Salbutamol, a beta-2 adrenergic receptor agonist) and Hydroxyzine (an antihistaminic medication), indicates an overlapping condition. A possible overlap between active airway disease and elements of anxiety or vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) can cause asthma-like symptoms.

The poor reactions to medications such as Albuterol indicate that proper evaluation is needed for you. It is advisable to go for a proper pulmonary assessment, including spirometry with bronchodilator testing. Also, you need a methacholine challenge if the baseline spirometry results are normal, and potentially a laryngoscopy during an episode to eliminate the possibility of VCD. If asthma is confirmed, inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting bronchodilators might be options to consider.

You should avoid environmental triggers, such as heat and humidity. To maintain a cool and dry living space, you can use a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter. If anxiety is contributing, behavioral therapy or breathing retraining (Buteyko or Diaphragmatic breathing) can be beneficial. Regular follow-up with pulmonary function testing and symptom tracking will be essential for diagnosis and effective long-term management.

I hope this information helps you.

Feel free to ask further queries.

Thank you.