Very worried about chest problems, can anyone tell me their experiences?

[strawberrycornetto]

DS is 21 months old and has had constant chest problems since last November. Its a long story but in short, he's had pneumonia, bronchiolitis, is treated for asthma although he coughs rather than wheezes generally. He's currently on his 12th lot of antibiotics.

We are under a good paediatric specialist. He was tested for CF in the summer and the genetic test was clear, but we didn't ever get enough sweat for a sweat test.

Following his most recent infection, his doctor did a new xray. He has now recommended a CT scan of his lungs, another sweat test and a barium test/ph test in case it is caused by reflux.

I am really worried and of course didn't manage to ask any of the questions that are now in my head.

I guess my question is whether anyone has a LO who has gone through these tests. What should I expect. I am especially worried about the PH one which sounds painful. Also, other than CF and reflux, what are they looking for? If you have any experience and can discuss it on here with me, I'd really appreciate it.

If you post in allergies, I think you're more likely to get a reply.

Sorry you're worried about him.

Thanks Pixie. I will try allergies too, although I am not sure it is allergy related particularly. We have already been down that path with him too, he was allergic to dairy but has outgrown it.

Does anyone know how they do they PH test?

Dear Strawberry Cornetto,
I'm very sorry to hear about the worrying time you're having. Even though asthma doesn't seem to be your main worry, it might be worth talking to one of Asthma UK's adviceline nurses to see if they know anything about these tests. Some of them work in hospital respiratory departments so have a wider knowledge of respiratory conditions. Their advice line is free from a landline, Mon-Fri 9am-5pm.

The British Lung Foundation also have a helpline, their helpine team includes "respiratory nurses, who can provide help and information on a the whole range of adult and children's lung conditions, their diagnosis and treatment, and how best to live with them
...". Tel no: 08458 50 50 20 (Mon to Fri 10 am to 6 pm)
Pity you have to wait until Monday but they might be able to give some good information & reassurance.
best wishes
Claire

Forgot Asthma UK Adviceline number - 0800 121 62 44

Thanks Claire, that's really helpful. I will definitely call the British Lung Foundation, they have good advice on their website so they definitely sound like a good place to ask my questions.