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diseases related to respiratory system
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Lung & Breathing Conditions
Question #13706
15 days ago
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diseases related to respiratory system - #13706

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I am really worried about my breathing lately. Over the past few weeks, I've noticed this persistent cough that won’t go away, and sometimes I feel tightness in my chest. I thought it was just allergies acting up, but now I'm starting to wonder if there are more serious diseases related to respiratory system issues lurking. My dad has a history of asthma, and there’s a lot of smoke in the air where I live due to wildfires. I went to the doctor and they said it could just be bronchitis, but I can't help but think about the diseases related to respiratory system problems—like pneumonia or even COPD. I did a few tests, but I’m still waiting on results. I’m 32 and kinda healthy otherwise, you know? I mean, do young people even have to worry about diseases related to respiratory system that can be really bad, like lung cancer or something? What should I be keeping an eye on? I guess I'm just feeling anxious about it all and need some advice on whether I should push for more tests or just wait it out.

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Doctors’ responses

Breathing concerns like yours can definitely stir up a lot of anxiety, especially when you consider the various respiratory diseases out there. Given your dad’s history of asthma and the smoke in your area, these could certainly aggravate symptoms like coughing and chest tightness. While a persistent cough and chest tightness can signify something more than just allergies, it’s also not unusual for such symptoms to arise from temporary conditions like bronchitis, which your doctor has mentioned. Young individuals at 32 generally have a lower risk of serious conditions like COPD or lung cancer unless there are significant risk factors like prolonged smoking or substantial occupational exposure to pollutants. Though waiting on test results feels long, it’s crucial as these results will help rule out or confirm any lung infections like pneumonia and guide the next step in the management. In the meantime, keep track of your symptoms. Noteworthy changes to notify your doctor about immediately include a marked decline in your ability to breathe, high fevers, coughing up blood, or a bluish tinge to lips or face indicating lack of oxygen. Given your exposure to wildfire smoke, wearing an N95 mask or staying indoors with air purifiers might help reduce symptom severity. Also, hydration, humidifiers, and over-the-counter cough suppressants may provide some relief until then. While awaiting those test results, take stock of any triggers—like smoke or allergens—and avoid them where possible. If your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen, it’s reasonable to discuss further evaluation, like pulmonary function tests or a referral to a pulmonologist, with your healthcare provider. Always prioritize changes that keep major symptoms from returning events life-threatening.

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