What Causes Hoarseness Of Voice And Shortness Of Breath?

Posted on Sat, 8 Oct 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 8 Oct 2016 Answered on

Tue, 15 Nov 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : My son is 46 years old. He just told me that he is going to see a pulmonary Doctor. He lives in another state so I don't see him often. I am worried. His physician did a lung X-ray and he does not have pneumonia. He is short of breath and sounds hoarse like he has a cold. He has never smoked in his life. What can this possibly. Be?

Answered by Dr. Ralph Chambers (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Hello. This could be asthma

Detailed Answer:
Hi. I could use some more information about his condition but this could be asthma or it could be emphysema or both.

There are types of emphysema that can occur in nonsmokers. If he's also hoarse this could be a chemical bronchitis problem caused by gastric acid reflux and acid aspiration.

Whatever the cause here is, it can be treated with inhalers, nebulizers, and prednisone if needed.

Please let me know if you need any more information.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng