Asthma - when should adults seek medical attention?

[BerniceBroadside]

Ok, I've had asthma since childhood, but it's generally been well controlled. Last five or so years it's worsened so I've upped the dose of preventer and increase it again if I feel a cold starting as that seems to be a trigger. This is following asthma nurse's advice. I'm very med compliant - even use a spacer.

I know the point at which I need urgent attention - for example can't finish a sentence. It's when to seek help to avoid it getting to that stage I'm not sure if, and the asthma nurse was quite vague.

As an example a few weeks ago I had a cold which, once the cold was better, left me very breathless despite increasing medication. After 36 hours I saw the Dr and was prescribed steroids as I was using ventolin every 30 to 60 mins at the worst point and was just so, so tired. Sats were good, But I felt rough. (Oh, the blessed relief when the steroids started to work.) Took a good few days to feel properly well again.

I always feel a bit of a time waster as the Dr never seems unduly concerned, but I do leave with steroids. How long should you give it without improvement before heading to the dr/walk in clinic?

Would it be helpful to get a peak flow monitor and use that as a guide?

I've not got asthma but I think using the peak flow monitor would definately help monitor how much your astma worsens and to keep a diary of how often it's worsing.

Good luck!! Xxx

How long should you give it without improvement before heading to the Dr?

Usually before I do ....

I have asthma which is normally well controlled but often triggered by colds, changes of season or environmental factors.

I was told to seek medical attention as soon as the blue inhaler has stopped having any effect. I'd say not being able to finish a sentence is actually pretty critical. it's so unpredictable and can deteriorate so quickly!

Haha, stopthefrog, I know what you mean. I just keep thinking I'll have another couple of puffs (or 10) and see how I am. I actually only went in the end because I sort of frightened myself by keep nodding off as breathing was hard work and I was knackered.

Thanks for the advice. I'll try and get myself a peak flow. Do Boots stock them?

I got my peak flow on prescription. I don't know if they are cheaper with or without.

You should get your Asthma Nurse to do an action plan (you can get them from Asthma UK) with you, which tells you when to up your preventer, start steroids etc. You could ask if you could have some oral steroids at home just in case.