Hi, Dr. I felling short breathing after meal and also feel dry cough with mild chest pain. But every time location of the chest pain is different. Some times its right, left, central and lower part of the chest. I was a regular smoker 1 year ago and till now some time I smoke(1 and 2 Cigrate in a week). Please suggest what is the cause of above mention problem. Now I m out of country and can not contact my physician. BR// Abhishek Singh
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. By your history and description, possibility of either HERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) or bronchitis is more. Since your symptoms are more with eating HERD is more likely. Smokers are at increased risk of HERD. It is due to laxity of gastroesophageal sphincter. Because of this the acid of the stomach tends to come up in the esophagus and cause coughing, chest pain and Breathlessness. So quit smoking as soon as possible. Start proton pump inhibitors. Avoid stress and tension. Avoid hot and spicy food. Do these things for at least 1-2 months and if you are still not improving than consult pulmonologist and get done PFT (Pulmonary Function Test) to rule out bronchitis. Smoking cessation is must in your case. Hope I have solved your query. Wish you good health. Thanks.