Symptoms of a Lung Condition

Coughing, Wheezing, Shortness of Breath, Chest Tightness & Other Symptoms

The board-certified pulmonologists at Midwest Chest Consultants in St. Charles, Missouri specialize in diagnosing and treating all types of lung conditions. Though symptoms can vary depending on the cause and severity, some general symptoms to watch for include:

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Sore throat
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Fluid in the lungs
• Coughing up blood
• Recurrent or persistent lung infection
• Uncontrolled edema

Diagnostic Tests

Your respiratory problem has a cause. But there is often more than one possible root condition. Some things, like shortness of breath, could be related to your heart or to some other underlying medical condition. To precisely determine the cause of your symptoms, we combine a physical examination and medical history with leading-edge diagnostics, including:

• In-house pulmonary function testing (PFT), or breathing tests
• X-rays and computed tomography (CT)
• Positron emission tomography (PET)
• Flexible bronchoscopy
• Rigid bronchoscopy
• Interventional bronchoscopy, including stents
• Thoracentesis
• Exercise testing
• Sleep studies (polysomnography)

What is a Breathing Test?

Lung function tests measure how well the lungs take in and exhale air. Complete pulmonary function testing is performed to diagnose the type of lung disease. The test lasts approximately 45 minutes. Breathing measurements are taken as you do several different types of breathing, such as panting and slow, deep breathing.

Spirometry, a quick and simple test, measures 3 good breaths and is done in the office to monitor changes in lung function over time. This test is done routinely as well as when medication changes are made or breathing problems flare up.

Comprehensive Pulmonary Evaluations in St. Charles, MO

If you have any breathing-related problems or symptoms of lung disease, call Midwest Chest Consultants in St. Charles, Missouri at (636) 946-1650. You can also use our online appointment request form at your convenience.