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[KateMoss]

Hello!

Welcome to Asthma UK!

Asthma is such a complex illness and had a variety of symptoms but brittle asthma is a real pain at times as it doesn't always fit the text book. I have type one and two brittle asthma ( Just to be awkward!!) And have had times when I have been told I am not that bad and then half an hour later on IV meds etc.

I have a written protocol that I hand to the paramedics, A&E nurses etc and is written in conjunction with my consultant but I update it myself an have numerous copies stuffed in all sorts of places.

Mine has rarely been ignored! Though some smart A&E doc will try to do something silly every now and again thinking they are the Doctor and you are the patient and they know best.

What I suggest is that you write a protocol, either on your own paper ( computer typed) and get it signed or attach a letter from the Brompton to it stating that this is your current protocol etc.

What to put on it. (Use lots of bold and red!!)

Name , address, contacts, DOB, Hospital no etc

Allergies

State that you have Brittle Asthma type 2 - in bold.

Your usual / current daily treatment.

What you use when your asthma is deteriorating eg nebs, epipens??

Your symptoms of a severe attack etc eg Peak flow if you can manage one!! LOL

How your attacks manifest themselves eg state that you deteriorate very rapidly and that you have been intubated in the past.

What emergency treatment works for you eg IVs

What NOT to do eg for me it is no atrovent and no ABGs unless I am really going off as the mess up my veins!

Hospital consultant, GP and Brompton contact number.

You may be able to get your name flagged at your local by your consultant on your records and they may be able to scan your protocol so it will pop up when your records are requested.

Ambulance service will also flag your name and addres if requestes too to enable speedy responce.

You could talk to your local Consultant too and they could chat to the A&E team?

I hope this helps a bit.

Kate

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