Bit Clueless...

[Catheec]

Hi all - I have always had lots of allergies with a bit of a query over asthma. Anyhow had a horrible flu type virus for 10 days + ended with a v tight chest, breathlessness & burning in my chest. Dr gave me steroids/salbutamol inhaler and said it could just be the virus but my chest is clear and it could be asthma. She wanted me to start steroids last night - I feel better today for sure but wondered how long steroids take to calm everything down as still coughing/full of mucous (yuk!). Also how often should I use the blue inhaler I was a bit shocked at the GP and don't think I took it all in. Any advice appreciated thanks in advance x

[risabel59]

Hi there , welcome

A bad virus, can really trigger asthma. Oral steroids (pills) take about 24hours to really kick in, normally prescribed for asthma in a short burst lasting 5 to 7 days. Inhaled steroids take longer to make a difference 5 to 10 days, sometimes taking as much as 3 to 4 weeks to reach full potency.

They won't get rid of infection but will really reduce the inflammation and allow your body to get rid of the mucus.

Best

R