I’m feeling utterly exhausted after an attack and visit to AnE, days later. Why is it taking so long to recover?

[Mcwheezy]

Exhausted asthma attack

[Poobah]

In the past when my asthma was brittle I ended up in hospital countless times and all of my stays were at least 2 weeks with more time at home after discharge. I would lose about 7lbs from an attack and recovery was slow. I was always left absolutely exhausted. Doctors always warned me that the steroids may make me feel a whole lot better, but the reality was different and over doing things could lead to a boomerang admission. I realise that such stays aren't current practice, but you're still looking at at least a two week period of recovery before you feel a little better. Just because you're sent home from hospital doesn't mean you're better, just stabilised.

And if the reason for the attack was an underlying virus or infection then recovery will definitely be slow and you will feel quite unwell and tired while your immune system fights the virus.

Take care and be patient.

[runcyclexcski]

I am still recovering from a hospital stay 5 months ago (I lost 5 kg during that). Asthma is a self-sustaining inflammation which can continue even when the initial trigger is gone, unless controlled by inhaled steroids, drugs (montelucast etc), biologicals (if needed) and allergen avoidance.

[1974lovejoy]

Usually takes me a few weeks to feel “normal” again !!! That’s usually a few weeks post discharge … don’t underestimate the long term effects of admissions or attacks .. taken me a few years to work that out and accept I need to just lie on my sofa and binge watch a good box set for a few weeks!!!

[Mcwheezy]

Thanks so much for your replies. I am now on my third week off work, which I have really needed. Hearing your experiences gave me the confidence to listen to my body and put my health first. Thank you!