Something I have found particularly eye opening is the huge variety in treatment of asthmatics in A and E. I have had really really great treatment and then not so good- I don't know how common this is, so thought I'd share my experiences and see what any of you have experienced and if you have any advice.
The good
- Quick treatment and being taken seriously
- Asking me what's helped before: when you've had more than a few big attack you know your asthma more than those looking after you. I'm not a doctor and I'm not going to demand treatment if its not necessary but I do know my own body.
The bad
- Asking someone having a severe asthma attack the same questions again and again. I know that paramedics, nurses and doctors all have different agendae and training and that some questions are crucial to ask individually (eg allergies). BUT I don't think everyone claryfying what medication I take and how long I have had asthma for is necessary- especially when you can't speak so it's a yes/ no game- and I've already gone through this! This happens a lot to me, but I don't have an asthma plan- considering writing my own just in case for next time.
- The WORST thing anyone can say to me is, 'slow you're breathing down, you're anxious'. I KNOW IM ANXIOUS I CANT BREATHE PROPERLY!!!! I cannot explain how angry this makes me- I feel labelled as having a panic attack rather than an asthma attack despite my peak flows dropping right off. Yes anxiety is a component but it's not the cause. Instead ask me- what are you worried about? I may reply (if I can!) 'this is a really bad attack for me' or 'why isn't this medication making me feel better, it usually does'
What are your experiences?