What do you do if already on predniso... - Asthma Community ...

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What do you do if already on prednisolone and still struggling?

Ladypig8 profile image
11 Replies

I’m awaiting a lung function test, had CT scan, on a lot of different drugs and inhalers, next is 2nd specialist appointment when I’ll hopefully be able to start biologics but that’s 2-3 months away. I’m calling daily for cancellation to see if can get the lung function test done quicker. I only just recovered from a flare up/week of prednisolone and now 2 weeks later I’m back on another week of it. What will happen if I call GP and say I’m still struggling? They gave me 6 prednisolone tablets a day for a week but shouldn’t it be 8? It normally is for me. Anyway I took the extra 2 so I’m on 8 a day now as fostair not doing trick. Tomorrow is Friday, should I just go to A and E over weekend if I’m struggling? Thanks for any advice.

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11 Replies
Bevvy profile image
Bevvy

I would definitely phone gp today and insist on an emergency appointment. Far better than going to a&e at the weekend. IF you can’t get an appointment call 111 for advice. They should be able to give you an emergency appointment to speak to a doctor. I have found 111 can be very helpful.

DaveW27 profile image
DaveW27

Definitely call your GP for emergency appointment. You could also go to a walk in centre which is usually quicker than A&E. Hope they can sort you out.

Njhs profile image
Njhs

don’t waste your time with the GP, try to have an access to pulmonologist, so different approach, so much more understanding. I keep struggling since the diagnosis and nothing is working for me, the immunologist suggested that i have MCAS, my pulmonologist suggested Bronchoscopy to take biopsies and see the source of inflammation and confirm MCAS or if it something else that dose not show in blood test. The GP will never think like that, only specialist .

peege profile image
peege in reply toNjhs

That's not possible in UK unless we have a good private health insurance. Our NHS (National Health Service, paid for in our taxes) is on it's knees in some areas and many of us don'thave access to a respiratory consultant/pulmonologist anyway so the choice is to call gp surgery at 8am for a same day appointment or ring 111 or go to A&E (accident and emergency) - usually huge queues and long wait.

Ladypig8, do uou not have a Ventolin rescue inhaler? I wonder if you can buy one or at least seek advice from the pharmacist........I hope you managed to get an appointment for today if not do call 111 if you haven't already. You could also call the helpline ASAP and before 5pm today for advice from a professional - 0300 222 5800. Good luck, it only happens at weekends and Bank Holiday!

PS If you're already on the consultant's list ring his/her secretary for advice, you may be able to get a prednisolone prescription to keep you going although what you need is a stethoscope listen to ensure you haven't got an infection brewing. P

Stewiecat profile image
Stewiecat

Sorry to hear you are struggling, it's distressing when your on meds that aren't helping and in the hands of gp's with little/no respiratory knowledge, I've been there so sympathise completely, are you under a consultant? I see your waiting for a 2nd specialist appointment, so presume you've seen someone hospital based? A respiratory consultant?? I'm able to contact my hospital clinic team online, through mychart, do you have this option?? I had to go private when in a similar position a couple of years ago, bouncing between the gp and a&e for months, whilst really unwell took a massive toll on me, desperation for help from a respiratory expert became the only option, is this is a possibility?? it is worth every penny x N

Stewiecat profile image
Stewiecat

Just to add, as suggested above, if you have a walkin centre they are a better option over the weekend, they can nebulise prednisolone and refer you onto a&e if you're struggling, it makes the a&e wait more bearable, just ideas from what I've experienced with weekend struggles

Stewiecat profile image
Stewiecat

Nebulise and give oral prednisolone, sorry! 🤦‍♀️ x

ReedB profile image
ReedB

Sounds like you should have had a longer course of prednisolone and at 40mgs daily. As others have said try and get to see a GP today. 111 are extremely helpful in organising this if needed. Best wishes.

Poobah profile image
Poobah

Hi Ladypig8. So sorry to hear that you're struggling.

I would phone the GP surgery and request a same day appointment as your current emergency treatment isn't controlling things. If you can't secure that appointment, phone 111 service so they can assess your need, they can override things if they deem it necessary for you to see a GP today.

But if, at any time, things are getting worse and your rescue inhaler isn't helping, go to A&E.

All the best, keep us posted. xx

Poobah profile image
Poobah

Hi Ladypig8. So sorry to hear that you're struggling.

I would phone the GP surgery and request a same day appointment as your current emergency treatment isn't controlling things. If you can't secure that appointment, phone 111 service so they can assess your need, they can override things if they deem it necessary for you to see a GP today.

But if, at any time, things are getting worse and your rescue inhaler isn't helping, go to A&E.

All the best, keep us posted. xx

GobbyPunk profile image
GobbyPunk

hi if you have a chest infection you might need antibiotics as well

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