I was diagnosed with late onset asthma earlier this year. I take Montelukast and use Trellegy Elipta Inhaler. This is my first Winter experience with asthma
Since the start of the cold damp weather I have noticed I am more congested, cough more and slightly more breathless. Is this normal and to be expected or is my inhaler not doing enough.
Thank you
It is pretty normal for winter weather to worsen asthma symptoms.
Go back to your medic if it goes on for too long, to ask them to look at your dosages.
Wrap up well and avoid the cold wet evenings.
I am on fostair 100 mart and in August, September, I just need a couple of doses a day, while now in winter, most days I will need six doses.
It all depends what your asthma dislikes.
I was diagnosed two years ago, and I've found I'm much worse in winter - my lungs hate rain, mist and fog! I've found a dehumidifier helpful in giving my lungs a break when I'm indoors. I've also become ruthless at avoiding people who like to 'share' their cold and flu germs and I take my own mug with me to evening class, coffee mornings etc, so I don't risk picking up germs from inadequately washed mugs!!! I get strange looks, but respiratory illness makes my asthma so much worse that it's worth doing all I can to avoid it. And I use the Ventolin at the first sign of a problem instead of trying to 'be brave' - I've found that prompt use calms things down but if I delay, I'm more likely to end up needing more.
Obviously, everyone is different, so these things may not work for you, but might be worth trying.
Everyone is different but it seems a good percentage do have worsening symptoms over winter, I tend to be worse in spring/summer with pollen and late autumn with mould spores, winter is usually fine. I'm a strong believer in exercise (if exercise isn't a trigger) and when arthritis allows I cycle which where I live means large-ish hills that open and clear the airways, a few years ago I was almost symptom free.
Good luck learning about "your" asthma, what triggers you what doesn't and how to keep well!
I would see your GP or asthma nurse to discuss additional winter treatment. Your current inhaler can't be increased due to the strict doseage guidelines as it contains a med that is strictly prescribed. Other combination Inhalers do have more wriggle room for additional doses per day during an asthma flare up.
Your GP or asthma nurse will discuss your options with you and ask for an asthma plan. But never hesitate to call them when your asthma symptoms worsen, as additional treatment will control things before they escalate.
The asthma plan is designed to help you take the right action promptly, whether that's increasing your medication or seeking help from your GP or taking emergency action.
Hi pussycatwillow, I would encourage you to go back and speak to your GP asap about your winter symptoms. You are also welcome to ring our helpline team for any support and advice but please be aware we close for Christmas from 3pm tomorrow until Jan 2nd
0300 2225800 option3 nurses.
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