New diagnosis. So tired.

[LittleBear60]

I am newly diagnosed with asthma. Likely have had it most of my life. I am having pulmonary function tests done tomorrow. My question is: Will my energy come back when I have this under control with medication. I have not been able to have anything except cough meds and albuterol since I have gotten ill. Previously had 4 rounds of steroids and 4 round of antibiotics, but have not been able to shake it off this time. Coughing for the last 4 months. I am sure this is why I am fatigued. I am normally very active, and would love my energy back.

[Carakraft]

Hi LittleBear60😊

I am sorry to hear that you have been so tired! Talk with your doctor about how tired you are...being short of breath is hard work on you and very tiring! There are so many things to figure out when you are first diagnosed, but your health care team is a good resource. Has anyone talked to you about your asthma triggers yet?

Cara

[LittleBear60 in reply to Carakraft]

Thank you. I will talk to my doctor. I have had allergy testing, and tests were negative. I do think I am recognizing my triggers tho. Dr will have test results tomorrow and get me started with treatment. I appreciate your help!

[Sharaybia in reply to LittleBear60]

Good luck with everything tomorrow and doctor figure out a solution

[Sharaybia]

sorry youre not feeling well but talk to your doctor and there are coud be many reasons why youre tired. But it may seem scary but you fight. I recently just did my pulmonary function test. And my asthma been actin up over month. i know because i was on high dose of steriods and that could be one of your reasons why. High dose of medicine can make u tired also. But my pulmonary specialist is sendin me to allergist and asthma specialist association. Maybe you should talk to your doctor about a referral to one. because they recently found out im allergic to peanuts and all oats. But u could also b allergic to something u talking or eating. Im allergic to 5 different medications. But talk to your doctor and i hope u get better

[LittleBear60 in reply to Sharaybia]

Thank you. I have no allergies, and I am seeing a pulmonologist. I am hopeful they will get me on a course of treatment so I can feel better soon.

[Kitten-kat23]

I am so sorry you are feeling this bad. I agree, you need to talk with your doctor. Being short of breath, makes you feel tired. I truly hope your doctor can help.

[Ritagg]

When I come off of steroids I am sooooo tired!

[Mahod Asthma Captain]

Hi LittleBear60,

I am so sorry you are going through this. But please know you are not alone. This is a wonderful resource for you.

I was diagnosed with asthmastic bronchitis at 65, nearly 3 years ago. It is a result of repeated bronchial infections and pneumonias caused airway and lung damage. At same time was diagnosed with hypogammaglobulinemia or primary immune deficiency disease. Reason for repeated infections. This is treated with gamma globulin infusions every 4 weeks.

Asthma! I was so tired early on as well. All the coughing, and working to breathe definitely contributed. I too show no allergies in testing.

It took awhile to learn my triggers. More so, to exacerbate astham and fatigue by pushing myself. Thought I should just get past it! Listening to my body has taught me so much, along with learning from others on this site. I needed to Pace and start being kinder to myself. I would never tell anyone else to just push past it!! Get over it. So why was I saying this to myself. Duh!!

Pulmonologist has me use peak flow meter. Learned my personal best and when I need to step up treatment. Developed an Asthma plan with doc. Also use a flutter valve and breathing exercises to help keep airways clear.

Mindfulness and relaxation tools help.

My meds and delivery methods have been changed over past 3 years.

None of this came easily for me as I just wanted to be "normal",. Not thinking about my health all the time. Acceptance is not giving in!! Lesson learned. It is learning to develop tools that work for you in order to enjoy life as fully as possible.

Yes, it does get easier. With good team of docs., Asthma plan and realizing sometimes I need to stop and give myself a break, rest...whatever it takes to regain energy.

I am praying all goes well with your appointment. Write down your questions, concerns and share with your doc. You are not complaining. You're open to helping doc know what's going on with you so he/ she can provide best possible treatment.

Hugs and prayers.

Mary

[LittleBear60 in reply to Mahod]

Thank you Mary. I had my PFTs done and saw the Doctor. He started me on a 16 day course of prednisone and Asmanex inhalor. So thankful it was soley asthma as my mom died of COPD and I remember her struggle. The tech who did my test had me pretty scared. Happy to have finally have treatment and actual diagnosis. Thanks again and happy, healthy wishes to you.

[Beasley63 in reply to LittleBear60]

Hello LittleBear how are you doing on the Asmanex? My lung dr. just put me on that in December. I think it has helped some. They have had me on Breo, Advair, Dulera and now Asmanex. I just have to watch being around anything that is scented. It is terrible. I just got diagnosed with Asthma at age 55. Best of luck to you.

[Mahod Asthma Captain]

That's great news! So happy to hear your on a good course of action.

Hugs and healing vibes,

Mary

[VinswaynW]

LittleBear60- you are well on your way to recovery by the choices you've made thus far and the advice you are receiving here. Be mindful of what triggers your symptoms, eat well, drink plenty of water, follow the directions of your pulmonary doctor and get as much rest as you possibly can!