Differential Diagnosis for 63 F with Cough and Wheezing for 3 Days
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Asthma exacerbation: This is a common condition that can cause cough and wheezing, especially if the patient has a history of asthma. The symptoms presented are classic for an asthma exacerbation.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) exacerbation: Similar to asthma, COPD can cause cough and wheezing, particularly in older adults with a history of smoking.
- Acute Bronchitis: This condition is characterized by inflammation of the bronchial tubes and can cause cough and wheezing, often following a viral upper respiratory infection.
- Pneumonia: Although pneumonia typically presents with fever, chills, and cough, some cases can present with wheezing, especially if the pneumonia is caused by an atypical organism.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE): Although less common, PE can cause sudden onset of cough and wheezing, especially if the embolism is large and causes significant pulmonary hypertension.
- Cardiac Failure: Congestive heart failure can cause wheezing due to pulmonary edema, and it is essential to consider this diagnosis, especially in older adults with a history of cardiac disease.
- Pneumothorax: A spontaneous pneumothorax can cause sudden onset of cough and wheezing, and it is crucial to consider this diagnosis, especially if the patient has a history of lung disease.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Bronchiolitis Obliterans: A rare condition characterized by inflammation and obstruction of the small airways, which can cause cough and wheezing.
- Eosinophilic Pneumonia: A rare condition characterized by infiltration of the lungs with eosinophils, which can cause cough and wheezing.
- Churg-Strauss Syndrome: A rare autoimmune condition that can cause asthma-like symptoms, including cough and wheezing, as well as systemic symptoms such as fever and weight loss.