Sputum test !

[rick1]

Just seen my g.p. I have had a deep chesty cough for about 4 weeks now, been taking antibiotics and steroids but no improvement, he asked me to take a sputum sample in to see which antibiotics to prescribe me.

[jball1952]

That sounds very positive to me. I had a cough for over 6 months before being referred to hospital, sent for sputum test, bacteria identified, correct antibiotics given and cough disappears! It was not all as straightforward as I was also identified as having Bronchiectasis and other problems but being sent for a sputum test earlier may well have saved me a lot of distress. If it does not go away insist on a referral. If in doubt speak to the BLF helpline as they are great!

[rick1 in reply to jball1952]

Thank you jball1952

[Hidden]

Rick, I have the same history as yourself for some years now. I had a referral twice now, and given various tests and xrays. I have a lot of chest infections, which, for the moment have slowed up. I am in the process of commencing pulmonary rehab. classes. I am told that they are good. My mobility is limited and the classes may help.

If the infections persist, it is useful to have a rescue pack, and a specimen sputum pot to use, before the antibs are commenced.

[rick1 in reply to Hidden]

Thanks annieseed for the information yes I go to pulmonary rehab classes and they are excellent and they will help you.

[hannahmac in reply to Hidden]

I have recently finished my rehab class and now onto maintenance class. Can't praise it enough. I am more mobile less breathless and sometimes even have a skip in my step. The last time I did the rehab I didn't go on to maintenance and within the six months I was back where I started if not worse. Good Luck with the classes

[peege]

At last. Don't forget to ring them back for the result in a couple of days - they probably won't necessarily be calling you. All the best. P

[rick1 in reply to peege]

Thank you peeg I wont forget.

[frank65]

good for him. her