You can feel heaviness and tightness while breathing due to many conditions such as common cold, infections, etc. Chest congestion is a fairly common occurring symptom seasonal allergies along with other respiratory disorders. Read this blog to know the top 7 reasons you feel chest tight because of mucus or otherwise.
Chest Congestion Due To Allergies
Cough and chest pain with congestion is common when a person comes across an allergic stimulus. Along with that, other symptoms like watery or itchy eyes and wheezing due to pollen, dust, or pet dander is seen. In such a condition, antihistaminic drugs or decongestants in the form of syrups can help; also, one should always go for allergy shots if they are prone to such attacks often.
Asthma
Asthma is a condition that results in swollen airways. The sufferer is sensitive to allergic triggers such as pollen grains, air pollutants, dander, or chemicals. This condition is genetic and tends to run in families, passed on from generation to generation.
Asthma mostly appears with chest tightness or even a wheezing noise while breathing. Moreover, the stimulus that causes allergies and chest congestion can also lead to shortness of breath at night.
Chest Congestion Due To COPD
COPD or chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder is sometimes referred to as emphysema or chronic bronchitis. It is primarily a consequence of smoking that makes one short of breath. COPD is the leading reason for inflammation and thickening of the air passages. Due to this, less oxygen enters, and less carbon dioxide exits.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is common in people who are chronically involved in smoking. However, there may be other reasons for it too. Symptoms along with chest congestion include:
- Pain in the chest
- Shortness of breath
- Voice hoarseness
- Coughing up blood with mucus
- Lung infections such as bronchitis
- Pneumonia
Common Cold
The common cold characterizes itself with chest congestion, sneezing, coughing, and nose stuffiness. These are some signs that most people are used to.
Cold may lead to the airways becoming inflamed and produce added mucus which may or may not be productive or cough able. If one strikes with the common cold, plenty of rest and excessive fluids intake can help dilute the mucus in the lungs.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a kind of lung complication that may arise because of bacteria, a virus, or even fungus. The first stage is flu, which comes along with symptoms such as shortness of breath, fever, shivering, and coughing up phlegm of yellow-green or red color.
Other Causes of Chest Congestion or Tightness
Other than chronic respiratory issues, some issues that result in chest tightness include:
Heart Failure
Heart failure is a condition in which the heart fails to pump as strongly as it should under normal circumstances. Due to this, a backup of fluid and blood goes into the lungs.
Heart Attack
Chest pain when coughing serves as one symptom of a possible coming heart attack. This condition needs prompt medical attention. If you suspect any signs, get in touch with emergency specialists immediately:
- Squeezing in the chest center or feeling of pressure
- Pain radiating in the arms, to your back, neck, jaw, or even stomach
- Shortness of breath
- Chills, sweating, nausea, or lightheadedness
Final Take Out
If you have lung congestion, contact the experts from Pulmonary Medical Consultants for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Call (281) 357-1300 for an appointment or any query.