I've been struggling after a COVID infection about 15 days ago. During the infection, I had a hard time breathing and it felt like something was stuck in the center of my rib cage, making my oxygen levels drop to 90. I had an HRCT of 1025 and have since recovered, but I still can't take a deep breath. When I do pranayama, I don't feel pain in the center of my chest when I breathe from my right nostril, but I do from my left, and my breaths feel shorter on that side. For the past week, I've had constant phlegm in my throat that just won't come out. My oxygen levels vary from 98 when sitting upright, to 95 when relaxed, and between 93 and 92 when lying down. If I manage to get the phlegm out, my oxygen goes back up to 98. I'm worried that my levels might drop more when I sleep. What could be causing this pain and how long could it take to go away? I've been sleeping in a prone position since COVID started and I'm constantly checking my SpO2. Can you help me figure out what's going on with this chest obstruction and the phlegm in my throat?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Anshul Maheshwari

General Practitioner

MBBS
5+ Yrs

Consult Now

take syrup ascoril twice a day for 5 days

Dr. Anshul Suggests...

Consult a Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Find a Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Answered 04/07/2025

More Pulmonology/ Respiratory Medicine Health Queries

View all

What is the most common cause of shortness of breath?

Allergic reaction or anaphylaxis, sudden blood loss, anemia, Anxiety, Foreign body or choking, lung infections like pneumonis, Fluid in lung, Collapse lung, Blood clot in lung vasculature like Pulmonary embolism, Asthma, COPD, Pregnancy, Heart attack or failure, Heart rhythm irregularity.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm really worried about my mom. She's been coughing for a week, and after we went to see a physician, she was given pulmoclear tablets. But now, after taking them for two days, she's having trouble breathing and feels tightness in her chest. Could this be a side effect of the tablet? Theres no family history of asthma or any breathing issues, and she was perfectly fine before starting the medication. I read somewhere that breathing problems are a rare but serious side effect of pulmoclear. Could this be true?

It's possible that your mother is experiencing a side effect from Pulmoclear, as breathing difficulty and chest tightness can occur, though rarely. I recommend stopping the medication and contacting her physician immediately to discuss her symptoms and explore alternative treatments.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm dealing with bronchitis and it seems like I'm getting infections a lot. What would be the best treatment, and is there a permanent solution to this? I'm really worried about the frequent infections.

Seroflo rotahaler sos for breathing difficulty is advised to the patient.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Health Articles for you

View all

Lung Cancer

Chest Cancer Symptoms in Men

Learn the early signs of chest cancer in men, including persistent cough, chest pain, and weight loss. Understand risk factors and when to seek medical help.

General Medical Consultation

Savior of Life: Your Essential Guide to ECMO Therapy

Discover how ECMO therapy works as a lifesaving bridge for patients with severe heart or lung failure. Learn its types, benefits, risks, and role in critical care.

General Medical Consultation

Your Guide to Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Components, Benefits, and What to Expect

Discover the key components, benefits, and expectations of pulmonary rehabilitation. Learn how this holistic programme helps manage chronic lung diseases and improve quality of life.

Coughing Up Blood

Hemoptysis Guide What to Do When You Cough Up Blood

Coughing up blood can be alarming. Learn key causes, red flags, emergency steps, and tests doctors use to diagnose and treat haemoptysis. Know when to seek urgent medical attention and how to prevent recurrence. Get practical first-aid advice and what to expect during a medical evaluation.

respiratory-conditions

Guide to What Are The 4000 Chemicals In Cigarettes

Discover what’s really inside cigarette smoke — from over 7,000 chemicals to the toxins and carcinogens that harm your lungs, heart, and DNA. Learn the facts, myths, and safer ways to quit smoking for good.

Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.