May 26, 2012
Topics A-Z Unanswered Questions Doctor said I have mild sleep apnea but still having difficulty of breathing during the day. Why?
Doctor said I have mild sleep apnea but still having difficulty of breathing during the day. Why? |
|
Dear Ask The Doctor: Hi Doc, I'm a 53 year old male. I'm 6ft and 260 lbs. I have been intermittently taking several quick breathes. It happens at night and at day many times a day. I feel its getting worse. Its kind of a gasp or skipped breath and then triple breath. There is nothing that invokes it as its random. Its been over 6 months now and geting worse. Ive seen my personnel doctor several times and he is telling me its nothing to be concerned with. He did send me to a pumonolgist and he had me do the two days of sleep hooked to machines in room after which he said i have a slight case of sleep apnea. I got the machine and used it every night for over a month and nothing whatso ever has changed,, in fact I think its progressing and im worse now! Whats my next step? Im getting very concerned! Dear Michael: Heart and lung conditions should be considered in instances with shortness of breath. It is possible you do have a mild case of sleep apnea. Most people would describe it as non-refreshing sleep. Others would feel fatigue during the day. As to your shortness of breath, it could also be due to anxiety. You also mentioned you are having acid reflux. Sometimes, acid reflux can manifest as chest tightness or difficulty of breathing. Acid production peaks 30 mins to a few hours after a meal. As the acid backflows from the stomach to the esophagus, it can cause these symptoms. Symptoms can also worsen at night. If you are taking omeprazole on an as needed basis, take it everyday. Avoid coffee, tea and other caffeinated beverages. If you want to be sure though, you can see your doctor again and request for an ECG or an echocardiogram. These are accurate tests that can detect common and serious heart conditions. I do hope I have answered your question and take care always. |
|
| Last Updated ( Monday, 29 August 2011 ) |
|
|
|
|
