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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Treatment For Chronic Cough And Breathlessness

Hi, my dad is a heavy smoker. He is 69 years old. When he has a coughing fit, he isn't able to take a breath in. So he'll bang on his chest until he can. Yesterday, he had another coughing fit, only this time he started to shake, or little jerks. Mom said his name, but he didn't respond, so she yelled it, and then he responded. I should also tell you that he is obese as well.
posted on Thu, 13 Mar 2014
Twitter Mon, 25 Sep 2017 Answered on
Twitter Mon, 25 Sep 2017 Last reviewed on
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Pulmonologist,  's  Response
Thanks for your question on Healthcare Magic.
I can understand your concern.
Chronic smokers are more prone for bronchitis (inflammation of airways).
Bronchitis causes bronchospasm and this in turn causes cough, chest tightness breathlessness etc.
So consult pulmonologist and get done clinical examination of respiratory system and PFT (Pulmonary Function Test).
PFT will not only diagnose bronchitis but it will also tell you about severity of the disease and treatment is based on severity only.
He will need inhaled bronchodilators (formoterol or salmeterol) and inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) (budesonide or fluticasone).
He should quit smoking as soon as possible.
Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wishing good health to your father. Thanks.
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Suggest Treatment For Chronic Cough And Breathlessness

Thanks for your question on Healthcare Magic. I can understand your concern. Chronic smokers are more prone for bronchitis (inflammation of airways). Bronchitis causes bronchospasm and this in turn causes cough, chest tightness breathlessness etc. So consult pulmonologist and get done clinical examination of respiratory system and PFT (Pulmonary Function Test). PFT will not only diagnose bronchitis but it will also tell you about severity of the disease and treatment is based on severity only. He will need inhaled bronchodilators (formoterol or salmeterol) and inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) (budesonide or fluticasone). He should quit smoking as soon as possible. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wishing good health to your father. Thanks.