After pneumonia, it is common to have post-infectious airway sensitivity and weakness for weeks to months, leading to intermittent dry cough, throat irritation, and chest tightness.
Possible causes include:
Post-infectious bronchial hyper-reactivity
Residual airway inflammation
Long COVID, if the pneumonia was COVID-related, which can cause fluctuating cough, chest tightness, throat discomfort, and fatigue
Current medicines may control symptoms but may not fully address the underlying cause
I routinely see and manage patients with similar post-pneumonia and post-COVID symptoms; a pulmonology consultation can help individualize further evaluation and treatment.
Next Steps
Repeat chest X-ray to ensure full resolution
Spirometry
Review treatment plan