Replies

I am going to my regular doc next week. I have been trying to self-diagnose and the closest that my symptoms mirror is COPD. So, I'll talk to my usual doctor then. It is a little tough since the symptoms are getting a little worse every day.

But, we are still fuming about that doctor. Hey doc, I'm having a lot of trouble breathing. Doc: Put on that mask, I won't help you if you don't put on that mask.

So, I am having problems breathing. Is putting on a mask going to help that problem, or make things worse?

It is hard to know what to say to such an illogical tyrant.

From my read of your post, you may have been subject to an aortic stenosis which has developed into a more serious stage. People can live with AS for years and decades without being aware as they are asymptomatic with recovery times following exertion being just a couple of seconds.

Once other things begin to manifest such as pedal edema (swelling of the lower extremities) it is or can be indicative of a flash CHF (congestive heart failure.) in fact it could be just that unrelated to valve problems. Look these things up including ‘cor pulmonale’ and see which might be more likely your case.

A recovery time from exertion of 7-10 minutes indicates serious business. I would suggest a Cardiologist if you can without a referral. Skip the PCP or regular Clinicians. The issues may sound frightening but they are these days ‘routine’ and in most cases can be remedied by competent Physicians and Surgeons even.

That Doctor who you saw should be reported to the local Medical Board as it is absolutely inexcusable behavior.

Good Luck.

Oh, if you were to go directly to an Emergency Room and inform them that you cannot breathe, you will receive priority attention. Skip that entire business of waiting around in Doctor's Offices.

Persons who complain of chest pain or dyspnea (breathing trouble) go directly to the front of the line excepting major trauma cases maybe. Depends on the cases.