Shortness of breathe

[ranby]

I am a fit slim 70 year old female experiencing shortness of breath, tightening in my chest with exercise. I've had a ECG test which was normal and a blood test to test for heart failure. Also had a chest xray which is normal and blown a peak flow test which had indicated a normal reading?

[Hidden]

Hi have you ever been or still are a smoker? If so you need to ask for a spirometry test. If this shows nothing then the next stage would be a CT scan. This is much more comprehensive than a chest x-ray and should show what if anything is wrong. Keep us updated please. x

[ranby in reply to Hidden]

No ive never been a smoker

[Hidden in reply to ranby]

In that case I would push for a CT scan then. x

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

I agree with Hidden but would also say, ask for spirometry too, because although COPD is usually smoking-related, it isn't always, it can also be caused by pollution, chemical fumes etc

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Fair point Hanne. x

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

You're having a senior moment there, Bev

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Ha ha. As long as you don't call me old x

[Hidden]

Hi ranby. Peak flow is really only useful for diagnosing asthma (highly unlikely in a 70yr old with no previous history.) A normal ECG & bloods does not exclude heart failure. My mother had normal results from the tests you mention, but I pushed for an echocardiogram, which showed she had heart failure and also a faulty heart valve. Your GP can refer you for this. Don't be fobbed off.

Ed: I should add this was 4yrs ago & my mother is now 89 & still doing well

[ranby]

Thanks have an appointment with my GP tomorrow so will ask about the tests you've mentioned.

[Huffnpuff73]

Also see if you can have a full blood test for low iron,ferratin,vitamin d and b12 etc as these can cause problems.

Acid reflux can also cause the mentioned symptoms during excercise.

Hope u get it sorted.

[Billybob10]

Do you really NEED to excercise?I have IPF and decided to self treat by cutting down a lot on physical activity.It seems that just tensing your muscles whilst sitting or standing keeps tone very well and avoids breathing probs.Also,breathing in only through nose is extremely beneficial.(Buteyko method).I'm 72 and this has changed me from hopelessness to positivity.

Good luck👍😃