Isn't it frustrating? I was 39 years old when I contracted the Alpha variant. I had a very mild case (like a cold), but had long COVID symptoms that persist to this day (almost three years later). Congestion-like feeling in airways is something that has improved, but has not totally gone away. Like you, no issues before COVID. I've had a chest x-ray, a pulmonary function test, and a laryngoscopy (look at larynx and pharynx through a camera that is put into throat) - all were normal. I do use Flonase for my upper airways, which seems to calm my sinuses down. But, nothing has helped my lower airways. I'm chalking it all up to inflammation of the airways, possibly the mucosal linings. I always feel like I need to clear my throat, but nothing is usually there. I also feel like it's hard to get air into and out of my lungs when exercising. Almost like I'm breathing through a straw in my lower throat area. I am using Zyrtec and Pepcid (H1 and H2 antihistamines) to try to lower inflammation - I think these are what have helped improve my breathing symptoms a bit. Hope you find some relief soon!