Question

What condition is best described by symptoms that include chest tightness, shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, fatigue, and prolonged recovery times after exercise. Diagnosis depends on accurate history, physical examination, and lung function testing?

Answer 1

The condition with symptoms including chest tightness, shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing, requiring a detailed medical history and lung function testing for diagnosis, is asthma. Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that can vary in severity and manifestation, sometimes requiring emergency treatment.

Step-by-step explanation:

The condition best described by symptoms including chest tightness, shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, fatigue, and prolonged recovery times after exercise, where diagnosis requires history, physical examination, and lung function testing, is asthma. Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that leads to swelling, narrowing of the airways, and often excessive mucus production. Not only can it be triggered by allergens, exercise, and stress, but it can also vary greatly in severity and frequency of attacks. Severe asthma attacks may need immediate medical attention and manifest with symptoms such as blue lips, confusion, and severe anxiety, necessitating rapid-acting medication via inhalers or nebulizers. Asthma differs from other respiratory conditions, like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or emphysema, although they share common symptoms like breathlessness and coughing.