Asthma Flare-Ups and Chest Infections

[jenkinsm]

I have had asthma for life and take daily prescribed medication. An exacerbation tends to lead into a chest infection. My oxygen stats never tend to dip very low but on a flare-up, I feel like there's something sat on my chest and even though I can take a full breath it feels like I am breathing through a narrow tube. Triggers can be dust, the weather, exercise. I keep myself physically fit when healthy and have a largely plant-based/vegetarian diet as I know the health benefits of this. I have tried some natural remedies but not consistently enough. Fed up of flare-ups and time wasted on illness. Would love to hear other people's experiences and if they have found a miracle treatment that we've not been told about. Also considering a pregnancy in the near future and I am worried about how my body my react if I have a flare up.

[Troilus]

Not sure what to advise here. My assumption would be that a trigger causes inflammation, inflammation causes phlegm, the phlegm breeds bacteria and hey presto chest infection.If that assumption is correct, I’d be suggesting you keep an eye on your peak flow and the amount of phlegm you are producing and increase your intake of ics accordingly ( under the guidance of your GP/asthma nurse) to reduce the inflammation and the phlegm associated with it before it becomes infected.

As for non prescription meds I’d be wary. I read a lot of good things about quercetin. True enough it did the trick in clearing my nose but my peak flow stubbornly refused to perform its usual April increase. I stopped the quertecin and it began its normal recovery.

I didn’t find anything about possible I’ll effects on people with asthma but there were some, for me at least.

I have read good things about NAC and bee propolis ( research data) However, I wouldn’t go there as people with asthma are likely to have a reaction.

It would seem to me, that the only way is to go the pharmaceutical route. Shame, but there it is.

[Patk1]

Great advice from troilus.Keep a record of when u start to feel off - peak flow, symptoms etc

U may be able to see a pattern develop and talk to dr for additional rescue meds before u get a full blown infection - u maybe able to stop it b4 it makes u ill.

I wld say jump on any exacerbation,as early as poss.it may prevent u getting ill + shorten length of time yr asthmas off.

[Shrimpy-13-22-25]

Hi Jenkinsm, I too have had asthma all my life and still have trouble pinpointing a trigger sometimes. My biggest trigger, and hardest to prevent coming into contact with, is perfume, especially body sprays. Even in hospital and ambulances some staff wear it. It’s awful having lung problems and missing out on so much. Have you discussed your asthma and thoughts of being pregnant with your doctor or consultant? Can Asthma uk advise?I wish you well.