Hello. I am a 19 yr old female who has had a previous ASD closure at age 11. Recently I have been experiencing shortness of breath to the point where my chest feels heavy and it is very difficult for me to breath. could this at any way be related? or simply another problem?
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. Since you are having history of ASD (atrial septal defect) repair, we should first rule out heart related diseases for your symptoms. So first get done ECG and 2d echo. If both of these are normal then no need to worry about heart diseases. Other causes are asthma, stress or anxiety. So consult pulmonologist and get done clinical examination of respiratory system and PFT (pulmonary function test). If both of these are normal then no need to worry about asthma. Sometimes, uncontrolled stress and anxiety can also cause similar symptoms especially in teenage. So consult psychiatrist and get done counselling sessions. Try to identify stressor in your life and start working on its solution. You may need anxiolytic Chat Doctor.  Don't worry, you will be alright. But first rule out heart and lung diseases. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.