AboutNeal Okerson Expertise I should be able to answer most questions about anatomy and physiology of heart and lungs. I also enjoy answering questions about understanding diseases. I should also be able to explain the goals and objectives of various pulmonary related treatments. Not an M.D., but worked in the field (Certified Respiratory Therapy Technician) since 1990. Registered Respiratory Therapist since 1995. B.S. degree in Health Education (1987). Currently working (since 1993) as the Director of Clinical Education in an AMA approved Respiratory Care Program in Western KY.
Question Hello. My dad is 72 years old, in great health, resting heart rate of 50. Each year, starting in February he gets these spells where he is short of breath or has trouble breathing. He has had every test in the book and even a heart cath. His arteries are perfectly clear. His doctors can find no reason for this. I was wondering if it could be seasonal allergies. It seems to only affect his breathing but not his sinuses. I was also wondering if asthma produced such symptoms but why only seasonal? I'm not asking for a diagnosis but your opinion on allergies and asthma as to how they affect the lungs.
Thanks,
Carol
Answer It sounds like it could be asthma. It might be possible to have a pulmonary function test done during a time when he is not having one of these events and then repeat it when he is. The comparison would likely be helpful. Of course the physician would need to order these.
If nothing else you could use a peak flow meter (available for a few dollars from a pharmacy) to track your father's condition. Many asthmatics use these at home everyday to chart how they are breathing. Your father could do the same. I am not sure if you would need a prescription to buy one of these.
Another approach is to simply prescribe a bronchodilator (like ventolin or Proventil) and see if it helps your father's condition.
Your father's physician knows his condition better than anyone. These are just ideas I am throwing out there. You always have the right to a second opinion from another physician.
