Asthmatic and Recurrent Bronchitis

[Cristina1992]

For the last few years my asthma hasn't been well managed. It was following several bouts of chest infections, i never fully recovered and haven't felt "normal" since... My doctor referred me to a specialist as they ran out of ideas.

At the specialist clinic I had a spirometer test (back in september) which came back with FEV1 1.78L, 54% predicted; FVC 2.59L, which is 69% predicted with FEV1/FVC 69% predicted. They concluded that there was a clear obstructive pattern and decided to change my meds.

I'm now on Fostair 100/6 (2 puffs morning and night) and spiriva respimat (2 puffs morning) along with carbocistein.

Early on this year I had several chest infections where I was continually coughing up green and bloody phlegm. I was prescribed antibiotics for atleast 8 weeks (possibly longer) and every time I finished the course the doctor could still hear crackling in my chest and I was still producing green and bloody phlegm, so more antibiotics were prescribed.

I was referred to a physiotherapist to try to help me clear the phlegm but I didn't find this dry helpful. I also had a chest xray (clear), a CT scan (essentially normal) and bloods to rule out other issues. The doctor asked for a phlegm sample which unfortunately was lost after I delivered it to the hospital!

I still don't feel 100% well and I still produce phlegm on a daily basis with it showing green on occasion. I have a followup every 3months with the specialist but obviously the last two due to covid have been telephone consultations which just aren't really the same.

I've now been diagnosed with recurrent bronchitis but I don't really know what this means. I've looked on NHS and read about it but the doctor never really discussed it with me, it just appeared on my letter they send out following a consultation.

Anyone else had a similar experience? Its been a roller coaster ride and I still don't really feel like I'm off of it yet... with covid19 and the winter fast approaching (which is when I usually have multiple chest infections) I can't help but feel worried.

Sorry for the long post... thanks for reading 😊