Skip to content
My WebMD Sign In, Sign Up

Announcements

This board is a place to discuss living with chronic illness and patient advocacy topics. If you have a medical question, please check the Health Experts tab to find a community that's right for you.
Last Reply:
I'm too young to be like this
avatar
smidget333 posted:
I need some help. I am 20 years old. I am having constant shortness of breath, weakness, difficulty swallowing, fatigue. I feel like I'm 80. My doctor suspects muscular dystrophy or perhaps seizures, but unfortunately I cannot get into a neurologist for 2 more months. I do have asthma, however, spirometry tests show normal ratios so this is not the problem. They also reflect that my muscles are restricting my airways. I went to the ER last week and because my O2 saturation was good they gave me a neb and sent me home (but no doubt they'll charge hundreds for it). I just can't walk around or hold full sentences or stand for too long without gasping for air. I can't use my diaphragm for some reason so all my breathing is very shallow and I cannot figure out how to correct this. I feel like I'm crazy, can anyone help?
1 Replies |Watch This Discussion | Report This| Share this:I'm too young to be like thisI need some help. I am 20 years old. I am having constant shortness of breath, weakness, difficulty swallowing, fatigue. I feel like I'm 80. My doctor suspects muscular dystrophy or perhaps seizures, but unfortunately I cannot get into a neurologist for 2 more months. I do have asthma, however, spirometry tests show normal ratios so this is not the problem. They also reflect that my muscles are restricting my airways. I went to the ER last week and because my O2 saturation was good they gave me a neb and sent me home (but no doubt they'll charge hundreds for it). I just can't walk around or hold full sentences or stand for too long without gasping for air. I can't use my diaphragm for some reason so all my breathing is very shallow and I cannot figure out how to correct this. I feel like I'm crazy, can anyone help?
Reply
 
avatar
Byroney_WebMD_Staff responded:
Hello Smidget333 and thank you for posting. I'm sorry to hear of your symptoms, but I think you're doing the right thing to see a neurologist.

I would encourage you to call the neurologist's office back and tell them your symptoms are escalating and ask for a sooner appointment. You can also ask if they'll put you on a list to call in case the doctor has a cancellation. You may also ask your GP to advocate for you with the neurologist and help you get an earlier appointment.

Hope you get your answers soon. Keep us updated on how you're doing,

Byroney
Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there. ~Will Rogers
Report This| Share this:I'm too young to be like thisHello Smidget333 and thank you for posting. I'm sorry to hear of your symptoms, but I think you're doing the right thing to see a neurologist. <br /> <br />I would encourage you to call the neurologist's office back and tell them your symptoms are escalating and ask for a sooner appointment. You can also ask if they'll put you on a list to call in case the doctor has a cancellation. You may also ask your GP to advocate for you with the neurologist and help you get an earlier appointment.<br /> <br />Hope you get your answers soon. Keep us updated on how you're doing,<br /> <br />Byroney
Reply


Back to Top
Back to Top

Popular Discussions

Start a Discussion | See All

Helpful Tips

Tips for Dry SkinExpert
? Take at least one bath or shower per day. Use warm, not hot, water for at least 5 to 10 minutes. Avoid scrubbing your skin with a ... More
Was this Helpful?
Yes No
15 of 22 found this helpful
Post a Tip | See All

Helpful Resources

Post a Resource | See All

Expert Blog

Strong at the Broken Places - Richard M. Cohen

Don't let a chronic disease or disability hold you back from a fulfilling life. Richard M. Cohen's inspiring message on being your own advocate...Read More

Related News

Report Problems to the
Food and Drug Administration

FDAYou are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.