Anyone use walking aids for their asthma

[Titch1908]

I am in hospital again, after another severe attack. Really struggling to recover, have seen speech and language, respiratory physio and OT. They’ve recommended things at home to help me with my breathing and ability to do things and a 4 wheel Walker that they’re going to arrange for me to take home when I’m ready for discharge. I’m not even 30, does anyone else use these?

[Troilus]

I don’t, but my advice would be to grab it while it’s going! You can always opt it in a cupboard under the stairs when you recover.

I was issued with a wheelchair about 10 years ago when I became very debilitated by cfs/me. Still have it in an upstairs cupboard, but it has been well used by me, my dad, briefly by my husband and dad’s next door neighbour.

[twinkly29]

I have never heard of anyone needing such aids purely for asthma, only when there have been other conditions involved, such as arthritis, EDS or other mobility issues.

[Titch1908 in reply to twinkly29]

I have got other health conditions, though I think they’re being made worse by my asthma. They said the walker would be so I can take my children out and sit down on it if I need too. I haven’t been out other than hospital in a couple of months so would be good if it helps.

[twinkly29 in reply to Titch1908]

Oh definitely - much better to be able to be out than not at all. I hope it does help even if only for reassurance - and hopefully you'll also have times you don't need it at all 🙂

[Titch1908 in reply to twinkly29]

I’m hoping this is just temporary. I can’t even walk to the toilet without being out of breath. This last asthma attack has really taken its toll on me. They are going to contact the council too about moving us because of mould and damp and there is no lift.

[Bevvy]

I use a 4 wheel walker that I use when outside. It is helpful to have a seat when needed. Also having something to push helps my breathing. I noticed if I pushed a supermarket trolley that breathing wasn’t easier!

[Titch1908 in reply to Bevvy]

Thats helpful to know. The OT said it would be great for helping me get out with my kids they’re only 8 and 3, I haven’t been able to get outside for a couple of months now due to being so breathless.

[Bevvy in reply to Titch1908]

I know there is a scientific reason as to why when push things that able to breathe easier. To do with opening chest by arm positions.

[Titch1908 in reply to Bevvy]

That’s interesting! I’m only 29 so felt like Im a bit young for all this really 😔

[Bevvy in reply to Titch1908]

I DO understand. I started using a walking stick at 40yrs before moving on to a walker.

I am actually retiring from work in December on health grounds. But am only 52yrs!!

So I have understanding about being young to accept things.

Happy for you to PM me if I can be of any help.

[Emer1000 in reply to Titch1908]

Don't ever give up, keep asking questions and looking for ways to manage, it took me a long time but I got there.... I was 23 when it started, read read and read about asthma, it will make you think about it more which will get you to ask more questions ... information is power ,,, learn all you can and suck it up when you have an attack, do whatever you have to to get better and figure out for the next attack how long recovery is and just get on with it, hopefully you 'll get better and figure out why you're asthma gets bad and how to get help quicker. I do find the finger pulse was a game changer for me as once my o2 is below 97 I take two puffs of Ventolin and it does mean I'm less likely to get bad (It can still hapoen). Last 24 years as an asthmatic I have learnt the hard way. Write things down that you find out along the way as I've definitely forgotten some good advice on my way along.

[CDPO16]

When I saw your user name I thought 1908 was your year of birth!

Seriously, if you are offered any aids to make your life easier take advantage of them. Using equipment takes some of the strain off and helps to prevent you getting overtired by using energy you may not have. Apart from walking aids a simple perching stool in the kitchen can be a tremendous help too.

Sorry you've has such a difficult year. I hope things improve for you and that you are able to be rehoused in better conditions. It's good that the hospital professionals are intervening in that respect.

Best wishes x

[MMBJI]

I am 45 and have bought a mobility scooter so that I can go out with my family on a “walk”. My asthma has been out of control since November 2019. My speech and movement are rather limited.

(I haven’t been out on it yet as we are shielding, still, ugh!)

I do think people will see me as a fraud as I look quite strong physically, although I always look very tired.

Yes, it feels very much like a “granny mobile ,” but I’ll take that hit if it means we can go out together (I have 2 young sons.)

I really hope you improve soon, do whatever you need to to get through.

[SenguineGritt in reply to MMBJI]

I feel you there on the looking like a fraud. I'm 280lbs and look like a Viking who never sleeps enough and hides from the sun due to paleness. I'm considering a walking stick though since I'm pretty tired of collapsing in public. I'd prefer people judging me than rushing to me to help me up and over to a chair.

Not too mention the medical bills 😅

[Poobah]

I don't have a walking frame but there are days when I would love one. I know when I do my shopping and my asthma is bad, it really helps to have a supermarket trolley. So practically, I think the OT is spot on, having a walking aid is a positive thing. If it's the difference between staying home or getting out and doing a little exercise, the latter is the better option and if you need a little support to do that, so be it. All the best.

[Emer1000]

Allergy test is enlightening. My asthma is bad day after I eat potatoes or crisps. I never would have figured that out by myself. I also never thought I'd stop eating them but I prefer not to cough / wake up coughing ... so now despite the fact I love them I realise what I'll be like the following day and decision is made.

[SenguineGritt]

I'm 28 and am actually looking for something to help me get around when the attacks happen. Mine hit suddenly and very hard. I'll go from happy, energized and healthy to collapsed on the floor and barely able to list myself. Sometimes walking is too much exertion. Ugh, the worst is browning out on stairs. I've gotten a few bumps and bruises that was. Fortunately for me my work has an elevator.

But yeah, a walker or walking stick is what I'm thinking. Just something I can lean on or use to help me ease myself down when the weakness hits me.