Asthma & Anxiety

[Lizzie1956]

After the worst 18mths period of ill health in my life, I took the health assessment questionnaire on this site this week. It highlighted (not that I really needed to be told) just how bad it had got. So when I saw my Asthma Sister with my Husband we chatted about it and I broke down. I've since seen my super GP and admitted that I can't cope with the stress of life at the moment............... just that first step of admitting I needed help was the worst, now it can only get better!

[lucia_m]

Hi Lizzie. Sorry to hear things are so tough at the moment.

Living with asthma can be really difficult. I had this exact conversation with a counsellor the other day and also ended up in tears. It’s good that you’re getting the support that you need. I hope things improve for you before too long.

[emmasue]

I feel for you. I've been going through a rough time lately and have been finding it hard to cope. I tend to bottle it up, but it doesn't really help in the long run. I'm glad you are getting help. I'm glad you have someone to talk to. Take care of yourself. I hope you start to feel better soon. xxx

[Cat33]

Hello Lizzie I'm sorry to hear how you are feeling There is a nice HU forum called Living With Anxiety that you might like to join in with

There are lots of loveIy videos on You Tube for relaxation too and books by Dr Claire Weekes are just so comforting

Asthma and anxiety is a miserable combination but I hope now you will be on your way to recovery

Wishing you all the very best 😊

[Lizzie1956 in reply to Cat33]

Thank you thats very kind of you. Will look at this books and see what I think,

L x

[Cat33 in reply to Lizzie1956]

Would love to know how you get on

There is also an excellent book called the DARE responce by Barry McDonagh it has helped me so much with anxiety it takes away all the fear of the symptoms and makes me all calm and positive

Take lots of care and all the best 😊

[TJRN1959]

Hi Lizzie

One question for you. Are you by any chance taking Montelukast?. Although it is a very effective asthma drug, it does come with the potential to cause symptoms of low mood and depression. I only know this because it happened to me.

Asthma is a very frightening illness, and it most certainly will get you down, no matter how cheery and optimistic a disposition you might otherwise have.

It can be very tough to remind yourself that you're a person who happens to have asthma, rather than an "asthmatic". If you can find a way to be defined by who you are and not the condition then your general wellbeing will improve. I know that it's easy to think and say this sort of thing, and much harder to believe it and live it.

Like any chronic condition, asthma can be a very lonely place, and so often other people seem dismissive - even the professionals. I'll never forget the ambulance person who once tried to re-assure me mid-attack by saying "now just try to breathe normally". Had I had the breath or energy I reckon punches just might have been thrown.....!

Your asthma, and all it's associated unpleasantnesses can all be beaten. You're a human being as important and as unique as any other on the planet. You can do this.

[Lizzie1956]

I didn't know that about Montelukast........ interesting thank you. I've had the toughest 18months ever health wise, stress wise (work and personal) and just completely overwhelmed by it all at the moment. However, steroids for long periods (this time 5 weeks at 40mg) have a huge effect on me and not in any way positive. They are now weaning down and like a switch my Asthma is practically non existent again!! Drives me nuts at the moment. Just been painting furniture in the open air and no ill effects at all, out in the garden - nothing??!! I'm really hoping the Xolair will help too.

Thank you again for your reply,

L x