my 21 year old son stopped smoking over a year ago. He used to smoke 1 to sometimes 11/1 pack a day. he was also on medicinal marijuana at the same time. When he quit he had severe chest pain and a hard time breathing. He had 2 chest x-rays done and both were fine. He also had an EKG which was fine. Now a year later, he is still having chest pain and a hard time breathing. It is not as bad as it used to be, but it is still there. Any advice?
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. In my opinion, we should rule out bronchitis in your sons case. Bronchitis is inflammation of airways and this is common in smokers. Symptoms like chronic chest pain, breathing difficulty etc. are commonly seen with bronchitis. So better to consult pulmonologist and get done 1. Clinical examination of respiratory system 2. PUT (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 improve with inhaled bronchodilator and inhaled corticosteroids (ICS). Don't worry, he will be alright with all these. First diagnose him and then start appropriate treatment. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wishing good health to your son. Thanks.