A&E visit

[alexanderosman]

Just got back from A&E, interested in people’s thoughts about what happened. Was triaged straightaway (checked bp & oxygen only, asked for brief details of the problem) then referred to GP although wasn’t told that was what was happening. Saw GP quite quickly - he listened to my chest, checked my throat and took the same brief explanation with no follow up questions. No PF taken. Didn’t ask about it. Said I could have a neb and took me to majors. No one then talks to me or checks on me at all (and I wasn’t able to speak in full sentences which is why I’d gone). They brought the neb in about half an hour, then when it had finished a nurse came and said I could go home. No checks, nothing. Just told me to go.

Obviously I’m happy it was quick, but the reason I’d gone was that I’d had 10 puffs of ventolin, which had worn off after an hour. I was struggling to talk and walk and obviously short of breath. But because my oxygen was fine and my chest sounded clear they seemed to decide nothing was wrong.

I feel a lot better than I did, but my chest is still tight and I can feel it gradually creeping back now after 2 hours. Will get help again if needed but am quite concerned about what’s happened because surely that isn’t right?

[MMBJI]

Yeah, that seems like they were a bit keen to move you on quickly.

Many of us on here don’t have text book asthma, ie; no wheeze, peak flow not much of an indicator, O2 doesn’t drop til we’re in big trouble.

It’s also very common for us all to have very variable experiences with the health service.

All you can do is go back if you need to. A different Dr may well treat you differently, especially if they see you were there very recently. I know it’s off putting when you don’t feel taken seriously. If I am ever unsure if I am bad enough to go to A and E, I ring 111, and let them have the responsibility! I always feel justified in going to A and E if 111 say I should, which they always do.

[twinkly29]

Agree with MMBJI.

So many people have asthma with no wheeze, ok sats, etc. I really really wish there was some kind of campaign to make doctors (a) realise and (b) accept that! It's hard enough at times being like that but being made to feel worse by people's attitudes doesn't help.

Agree to go back if you need to. They really should have reviewed you after the neb at the very least. Or yes to 111. They might be able to get you seen (or called) by an OOH doctor who might give you some pred or something.

[alexanderosman in reply to twinkly29]

Thanks. I'd been prescribed pred by my GP yesterday, it was actually going to collect that from the pharmacy that started the attack. I called 111 yesterday and they had called an ambulance but said it was a long wait and I should get someone to drive me if possible. I would call 111 again though - if anything I think it's a good test of how hard it is to talk. I was getting so tired answering their questions I knew I needed to go.

[Poobah]

If you think that your A&E treatment was not up to scratch then complain to PALS. This article may persuade you. theguardian.com/healthcare-... aside, if your asthma is deteriorating then definitely phone 111 again. If you're unable to speak a sentence then it's time to seek help. Pred takes days to have an affect and you may need interim emergency treatment.

I hope you feel better soon.

[Melanie1989]

I had much the same experience with the same symptoms but told it was anxiety, however I was admitted. I complained to PALS and did get a written apology from the consultant, even if it was a bit reluctant! He just said in the letter sometimes it is really hard to distinguish between asthma and anxiety and the dr was confused by lack of wheeze.. He did say he has spoke to the dr in question about recognising asthma..

In regards to peakflow current guidelines state no peakflows untill negative covid test as the action can induce coughing, I do think however they should at least ask you what it was at home!

At the very least they should have done bloods to check for infection markers and ensured you felt well enough to leave..

I would definetly complain to PALS as it can improve treatment for other patients to and at the very least provide you with a rationale as to the reason for their actions.

Hope you feel better soon and as you know 111 if you feel worse!

[alexanderosman]

Thanks. I did wonder if there was a reason they weren't doing peak flow, wish they had told me. Yes I think I will contact PALS. I'm scared when I feel short of breath now whereas normally I'm quite calm about it all. Worried the same thing will happen this evening.

[Jeecamgunn in reply to alexanderosman]

Not well treated at all. A bit of care and concern goes a long way. Definitely return if you feel unwell again. Everyone being rushed out just now. Quite sad. Take care xx

[Itswonderful]

Sounds bloomin awful to me! Phone 111 and when you feel better contact PALS as these things will never change if people do not bring them to the attention of the hospital. I have had similar experiences. They appear to rely too much on numbers and seem to bypass the person laying in The bed struggling to breathe. Waiting half an hour for a nebuliser is terrible care.

[alexanderosman]

I agree, I will definitely contact PALS. I wasn't even in a bed, was just sitting in a chair! Before I got the neb I was getting so tired I was really struggling to sit up.