Newly diagnosed

Hi,

I got diagnosed with asthma about a month ago (had it when I was a child but I don't remember). I've had a tough day today with chest pain, rib pain, back pain and headaches. Are these symptoms of asthma? I'm not sure I'm managing it correctly, I also work outside in a city centre which I don't think helps

[Chip_y2kuk]

The pains could (are likely to be) accessory muscles which are working harder than usual to move oxygen around your lungs = suggestive of an asthma problem (flare up/poor management)

Headaches can be a numberof things but lower oxygen and coughing can cause headaches

[Hidden in reply to Chip_y2kuk]

Thank you. Just need a bit of reassurance sometimes, ha!

[Hidden]

Hi Hidden

Welcome to the forum, and sorry to hear you've had a tough day. Tt may be useful to talk through your asthma management with one of our asthma nurses on the helpline to clarify what you should be doing and talk through how you are feeling bit.ly/asthmacall. Please feel free to give us a ring on 0300 222 5800 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm).

Take care,

Dita

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Thank you, Dita. I'll call during the week. I'm also hoping to be able to see the respiratory nurse as well.

[Hidden]

Hi Hidden

We also have some information about our website about questions to ask your asthma nurse or GP that might be useful: bit.ly/2urXdHX

Let us know how you get on,

Dita

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Hi Dita,

I had my appointment with the GP and it went really well. He took my peak flow and instructed me how to use my inhaler as well as providing me with an air chamber. I'm feeling much better now. I've got an asthma review with the nurse next week. Only problem I'm having now is my blue salbutamol inhaler makes me feel a bit shaky after I've taken it.

[Hidden]

Hi Hidden

Good to hear your appointment went really well and you had your inhaler technique checked and have been given a spacer.

We do advise having a written action plan so it would be worth going over that with your asthma nurse. There's some information here about what to do when you feel shaky taking your blue inhaler beta.nhs.uk/medicines/salbu... (and do mention it in your next appointment)

Take care,

Dita