What should I expect

[ChicChantal]

Hiya. I had my first diagnosis of asthma 5 years ago (in middle age) but it had never given me much trouble until about a month ago when I got up in the morning unable to walk 10 paces. That was due to a combo of air pollution and hayfever, I think. Then 2 weeks ago, I got a cold and last weekend, the same thing - only it has lasted a week now. The doctor has signed me off work and I've got antibiotics, but it's not improving much. Is this usual? I'll admit it, I'm reeling at the moment.

[elanaoali]

When your asthma gets worse all of a sudden it does throw you. Sounds like you been hit by two triggers followed by cold (can be worse as your lungs were already comprised) so it's not surprising that this has happened. Remember that your airways are always inflamed. Antibiotics signal a bacterial infection. You're really been knocked for six. Be kind to yourself take things slow listen to your body. If any doubts or if you want advise ring asthma helpline see asthma UK helpline. (Remember we aren't doctors just fellow asthmatics) I hope and pray your health improves and you can your mind around this experience.

[Minushabens]

I'm guessing if you've been generally trouble free that you probably only have a minimal level of medication? It sounds like maybe you need something over & above antibiotics so if your symptoms don't settle quickly then definitely go back. You may need steroids and a stronger preventer to reduce the chances of it happening again.

[ChicChantal]

My Ventolin is 100mg and I use Seretide morning and evening. Yeah, what's worrying me is 'is this it? For the rest of my life?' I can't do anything until an hour after I get up in the morning, when I cough lots off yuck up, then use the Ventolin. I have barely been out this week as I'm not confident. I'm supposed to be back at work on Monday and really don't see how I can.

[Griffon]

I'm sure you know that antibiotics do not work against viruses like a cold ?

In my experience an asthma attack can last indefinitely ( 8 months ) and the key is to get it under control with the correct treatment .

[ChicChantal in reply to Griffon]

Not only do I know, but my GP, who prescribes them knows too.

[Griffon]

This is why there is a huge problem with antibiotic resistance .

My experience with GP's has not been good - they can make very basic mistakes . It pays to educate yourself on a condition so that you know the right questions to ask - a doctors word is not gospel !

Try and get an appointment to see the Asthma Nurse , they are more specialised .

[ChicChantal]

That is your experience. MY GP is VERY reluctant to give antibiotics.

The asthma nurse on the other hand has never given me a written asthma plan, although I understand I should have had one and I saw her twice last week.

[ChicChantal]

Well, my GP signed me off work for a further fortnight, and gave me a different antibiotic and another inhaler (Tiotropium). That was Monday. So Thursday night the air pollution rocketed and yesterday I was advised to go to A&E which I did, they put me on the nebuliser there, and gave me carbosisteine and prednisolone prescriptions (which I have to go and collect, by the time I left A&E yesterday there were no chemists open).

Feeling very very rocky.