Guest guest Posted July 7, 2005 Report Share Posted July 7, 2005 Hi Judith, sorry your asthma is giving you a bad time, May I ask how old you are, my asthma deteriorated badly at Menopause and I'm still struggling with it despite medication much like yours. Yes I think the airways become more and more sensitive and inflamed. Have you had a course of Oral Steroids, Prednisolone, sometimes you need those just to give your lungs a chance to settle down. Do you go to a specialist for your medicines, asthma is very complicated, maybe they need to do some tests on you to find out more? The sinus infection is awful, I've been suffering from that too and they think it may be a reaction to the Flixotide!! I usual a nasal rinse every day which helps a lot. Singulair did not work for me but lots of people swear by it, but you need to take it continually to get the constant benefit. Also what about a home nebuliser, I find that is my life line, I nebulise Ventolin and Atrovent to keep the airways open. That is much more effective for me than the same medicines in inhalers. Good Luck with getting on top of it all, it's miserable to have to deal with asthma every day. Regards from June in Lonon > My name is Judith Herbers and I haven't been very active on this list. > My asthma (non allergic hyperreactive airways) seems to be getting > worse every year. I have a constant sinus infection for which I have > steroidal meds, I also take oxis, atrovent and flixotide at high > dosages. All in all 1600 mg inhalation steroids. > Right now things are very poor due to a very slight respitory > infection. I am short of breath more so than normal, and have no > energy whatsoever. > The pollen have caused me a lot of trouble this year, my airways seem > to be getting more sensitive each year. > > I also have EIA which prevents me to really exercise properly. I do > fitness once a week and walk my dogs daily. > > I have also recently discovered I have celiac disease and have had a > slight case of excema for a few years. > > In short things seem to be slowly getting worse. Is this normal for > asthma? Though the newest leukotrien meds like singulair make me > drowsy, should I still consider these during really bad periods? > I am very fortunate that all meds are covered by Dutch National > Health insurance, even the supplemental nutrition I need. > > Kind regards > Judith Herbers > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 7, 2005 Report Share Posted July 7, 2005 Hi Judith, sorry your asthma is giving you a bad time, May I ask how old you are, my asthma deteriorated badly at Menopause and I'm still struggling with it despite medication much like yours. Yes I think the airways become more and more sensitive and inflamed. Have you had a course of Oral Steroids, Prednisolone, sometimes you need those just to give your lungs a chance to settle down. Do you go to a specialist for your medicines, asthma is very complicated, maybe they need to do some tests on you to find out more? The sinus infection is awful, I've been suffering from that too and they think it may be a reaction to the Flixotide!! I usual a nasal rinse every day which helps a lot. Singulair did not work for me but lots of people swear by it, but you need to take it continually to get the constant benefit. Also what about a home nebuliser, I find that is my life line, I nebulise Ventolin and Atrovent to keep the airways open. That is much more effective for me than the same medicines in inhalers. Good Luck with getting on top of it all, it's miserable to have to deal with asthma every day. Regards from June in Lonon > My name is Judith Herbers and I haven't been very active on this list. > My asthma (non allergic hyperreactive airways) seems to be getting > worse every year. I have a constant sinus infection for which I have > steroidal meds, I also take oxis, atrovent and flixotide at high > dosages. All in all 1600 mg inhalation steroids. > Right now things are very poor due to a very slight respitory > infection. I am short of breath more so than normal, and have no > energy whatsoever. > The pollen have caused me a lot of trouble this year, my airways seem > to be getting more sensitive each year. > > I also have EIA which prevents me to really exercise properly. I do > fitness once a week and walk my dogs daily. > > I have also recently discovered I have celiac disease and have had a > slight case of excema for a few years. > > In short things seem to be slowly getting worse. Is this normal for > asthma? Though the newest leukotrien meds like singulair make me > drowsy, should I still consider these during really bad periods? > I am very fortunate that all meds are covered by Dutch National > Health insurance, even the supplemental nutrition I need. > > Kind regards > Judith Herbers > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 7, 2005 Report Share Posted July 7, 2005 I can understand how you feel. My asthma has been worse lately too. I use Singulair and so far do well on it. I also use Advair, which does control my asthma better, and albuterol. See about a nebulizer. I couldn't live without mine. Are you on antibiotics for the infections? Mine is getting worse every year and I am losing part of my insurance coverage so I have to be careful. If you have more questions just ask. herbe045 wrote: My name is Judith Herbers and I haven't been very active on this list.My asthma (non allergic hyperreactive airways) seems to be getting worse every year. I have a constant sinus infection for which I have steroidal meds, I also take oxis, atrovent and flixotide at high dosages. All in all 1600 mg inhalation steroids.Right now things are very poor due to a very slight respitory infection. I am short of breath more so than normal, and have no energy whatsoever.The pollen have caused me a lot of trouble this year, my airways seem to be getting more sensitive each year.I also have EIA which prevents me to really exercise properly. I do fitness once a week and walk my dogs daily.I have also recently discovered I have celiac disease and have had a slight case of excema for a few years.In short things seem to be slowly getting worse. Is this normal for asthma? Though the newest leukotrien meds like singulair make me drowsy, should I still consider these during really bad periods?I am very fortunate that all meds are covered by Dutch National Health insurance, even the supplemental nutrition I need.Kind regardsJudith HerbersGod bless you!__________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 7, 2005 Report Share Posted July 7, 2005 I can understand how you feel. My asthma has been worse lately too. I use Singulair and so far do well on it. I also use Advair, which does control my asthma better, and albuterol. See about a nebulizer. I couldn't live without mine. Are you on antibiotics for the infections? Mine is getting worse every year and I am losing part of my insurance coverage so I have to be careful. If you have more questions just ask. herbe045 wrote: My name is Judith Herbers and I haven't been very active on this list.My asthma (non allergic hyperreactive airways) seems to be getting worse every year. I have a constant sinus infection for which I have steroidal meds, I also take oxis, atrovent and flixotide at high dosages. All in all 1600 mg inhalation steroids.Right now things are very poor due to a very slight respitory infection. I am short of breath more so than normal, and have no energy whatsoever.The pollen have caused me a lot of trouble this year, my airways seem to be getting more sensitive each year.I also have EIA which prevents me to really exercise properly. I do fitness once a week and walk my dogs daily.I have also recently discovered I have celiac disease and have had a slight case of excema for a few years.In short things seem to be slowly getting worse. Is this normal for asthma? Though the newest leukotrien meds like singulair make me drowsy, should I still consider these during really bad periods?I am very fortunate that all meds are covered by Dutch National Health insurance, even the supplemental nutrition I need.Kind regardsJudith HerbersGod bless you!__________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 7, 2005 Report Share Posted July 7, 2005 I can understand how you feel. My asthma has been worse lately too. I use Singulair and so far do well on it. I also use Advair, which does control my asthma better, and albuterol. See about a nebulizer. I couldn't live without mine. Are you on antibiotics for the infections? Mine is getting worse every year and I am losing part of my insurance coverage so I have to be careful. If you have more questions just ask. herbe045 wrote: My name is Judith Herbers and I haven't been very active on this list.My asthma (non allergic hyperreactive airways) seems to be getting worse every year. I have a constant sinus infection for which I have steroidal meds, I also take oxis, atrovent and flixotide at high dosages. All in all 1600 mg inhalation steroids.Right now things are very poor due to a very slight respitory infection. I am short of breath more so than normal, and have no energy whatsoever.The pollen have caused me a lot of trouble this year, my airways seem to be getting more sensitive each year.I also have EIA which prevents me to really exercise properly. I do fitness once a week and walk my dogs daily.I have also recently discovered I have celiac disease and have had a slight case of excema for a few years.In short things seem to be slowly getting worse. Is this normal for asthma? Though the newest leukotrien meds like singulair make me drowsy, should I still consider these during really bad periods?I am very fortunate that all meds are covered by Dutch National Health insurance, even the supplemental nutrition I need.Kind regardsJudith HerbersGod bless you!__________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 7, 2005 Report Share Posted July 7, 2005 Exercise is the most common trigger of asthma, according to some experts, however your asthma plan is not satisfactory if exercise causes coughing and wheezing. When your asthma is well controlled, you will be able to exercise as long as anyone else your age. Do you know what your triggers are? Is your house free of mold dust and cockroaches? Are you allergic to your pet(s)? Does grass and pollen trigger your asthma? Are you taking preventive meds and have rescue medications ready? I ask these questions because they are all part of a GOOD " Asthma Action Plan " . Every one with asthma needs a plan. Here are some guidelines to avoid triggers. Some people get upset with some of these rules but you have to be the one who makes the ultimate decision. Is your helth more important then what you may have to give up? 1. Do not smoke, don't let any smoke in your house. 2. If you are allergic to your pet(s), find it/them a new home or keep them outside. You can wash them once a week if you just have to keep it. 3. Keep humidity in you house between 25 and 50 percent to reduce growth of mold. Keep it less then 35 percent to help keep the cockroach population down. 4. Remove wall to wall carpet. 5. Use double thickness vacuum cleaner bags. 6. Use a HEPA air filter in the bedroom. 7. Encase your mattress, box springs and pillows with a hypo- allergenic covering. 8. Cover your heating/cooling vents with air filters. 9. Use boric acid rather then spray to kill roaches. 10. Put stuffed animals in the freezer for one hour a week to kill dust mites. 11. Use an exhaust fan in the bathroom and vent the clothes dryer to the outside to reduce humidity. 12. Use a ventilating hood over the stove. 13. Clean your house regularly. Dirt, dust, mold, standing water, bugs, and animal fur just sitting around the house all make symptoms worse. 14. If you have to go outside for exercise, go in the early morning or late evening or after a rain. This is when pollen is the lowest. EXERCISE IS ONE TRIGGER YOU SHOULD NOT AVOID. As always, talk to your diction about your asthma and action plan. Matt Anders RRT, EMT, AS > My name is Judith Herbers and I haven't been very active on this list. > My asthma (non allergic hyperreactive airways) seems to be getting > worse every year. I have a constant sinus infection for which I have > steroidal meds, I also take oxis, atrovent and flixotide at high > dosages. All in all 1600 mg inhalation steroids. > Right now things are very poor due to a very slight respitory > infection. I am short of breath more so than normal, and have no > energy whatsoever. > The pollen have caused me a lot of trouble this year, my airways seem > to be getting more sensitive each year. > > I also have EIA which prevents me to really exercise properly. I do > fitness once a week and walk my dogs daily. > > I have also recently discovered I have celiac disease and have had a > slight case of excema for a few years. > > In short things seem to be slowly getting worse. Is this normal for > asthma? Though the newest leukotrien meds like singulair make me > drowsy, should I still consider these during really bad periods? > I am very fortunate that all meds are covered by Dutch National > Health insurance, even the supplemental nutrition I need. > > Kind regards > Judith Herbers Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 Hi June thanks for your answer. I am 47 and have no menopausal symptoms to speak of. I am seeing a pulmonologist and she a doctor I truly respect. She is very conservative with the amount of steroids I take, I have found research on the internet that states that even inhalation steroids can cause long term problems. Though part of me I would love to get a course of pred, simply because I need a break. I nebulize meds for my sinus problems and have no problem with the atrovent and oxis. I use salt water nasal drops, is that what you mean by nasal rinse. I found out this year that the Southern half of the Netherlands is one of the worst air polluted area's in the world and I believe that that is the real problem. I am very sorry that London was so viciously hit in yesterday's attack. And at the same time impressed with the courage and dignity of its citizens and rescue workers. My heart goes out to all the victims and their families. Kind regards Judith Herbers > Hi Judith, sorry your asthma is giving you a bad time, May I ask how > old you are, my asthma deteriorated badly at Menopause and I'm still > struggling with it despite medication much like yours. > Yes I think the airways become more and more sensitive and inflamed. > Have you had a course of Oral Steroids, Prednisolone, sometimes you > need those just to give your lungs a chance to settle down. > Do you go to a specialist for your medicines, asthma is very > complicated, maybe they need to do some tests on you to find out more? > The sinus infection is awful, I've been suffering from that too and > they think it may be a reaction to the Flixotide!! I usual a nasal > rinse every day which helps a lot. Singulair did not work for me but > lots of people swear by it, but you need to take it continually to get > the constant benefit. Also what about a home nebuliser, I find that is > my life line, I nebulise Ventolin and Atrovent to keep the airways > open. That is much more effective for me than the same medicines in > inhalers. > Good Luck with getting on top of it all, it's miserable to have to deal > with asthma every day. > Regards from June in Lonon Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 Hi June thanks for your answer. I am 47 and have no menopausal symptoms to speak of. I am seeing a pulmonologist and she a doctor I truly respect. She is very conservative with the amount of steroids I take, I have found research on the internet that states that even inhalation steroids can cause long term problems. Though part of me I would love to get a course of pred, simply because I need a break. I nebulize meds for my sinus problems and have no problem with the atrovent and oxis. I use salt water nasal drops, is that what you mean by nasal rinse. I found out this year that the Southern half of the Netherlands is one of the worst air polluted area's in the world and I believe that that is the real problem. I am very sorry that London was so viciously hit in yesterday's attack. And at the same time impressed with the courage and dignity of its citizens and rescue workers. My heart goes out to all the victims and their families. Kind regards Judith Herbers > Hi Judith, sorry your asthma is giving you a bad time, May I ask how > old you are, my asthma deteriorated badly at Menopause and I'm still > struggling with it despite medication much like yours. > Yes I think the airways become more and more sensitive and inflamed. > Have you had a course of Oral Steroids, Prednisolone, sometimes you > need those just to give your lungs a chance to settle down. > Do you go to a specialist for your medicines, asthma is very > complicated, maybe they need to do some tests on you to find out more? > The sinus infection is awful, I've been suffering from that too and > they think it may be a reaction to the Flixotide!! I usual a nasal > rinse every day which helps a lot. Singulair did not work for me but > lots of people swear by it, but you need to take it continually to get > the constant benefit. Also what about a home nebuliser, I find that is > my life line, I nebulise Ventolin and Atrovent to keep the airways > open. That is much more effective for me than the same medicines in > inhalers. > Good Luck with getting on top of it all, it's miserable to have to deal > with asthma every day. > Regards from June in Lonon Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 Hi June thanks for your answer. I am 47 and have no menopausal symptoms to speak of. I am seeing a pulmonologist and she a doctor I truly respect. She is very conservative with the amount of steroids I take, I have found research on the internet that states that even inhalation steroids can cause long term problems. Though part of me I would love to get a course of pred, simply because I need a break. I nebulize meds for my sinus problems and have no problem with the atrovent and oxis. I use salt water nasal drops, is that what you mean by nasal rinse. I found out this year that the Southern half of the Netherlands is one of the worst air polluted area's in the world and I believe that that is the real problem. I am very sorry that London was so viciously hit in yesterday's attack. And at the same time impressed with the courage and dignity of its citizens and rescue workers. My heart goes out to all the victims and their families. Kind regards Judith Herbers > Hi Judith, sorry your asthma is giving you a bad time, May I ask how > old you are, my asthma deteriorated badly at Menopause and I'm still > struggling with it despite medication much like yours. > Yes I think the airways become more and more sensitive and inflamed. > Have you had a course of Oral Steroids, Prednisolone, sometimes you > need those just to give your lungs a chance to settle down. > Do you go to a specialist for your medicines, asthma is very > complicated, maybe they need to do some tests on you to find out more? > The sinus infection is awful, I've been suffering from that too and > they think it may be a reaction to the Flixotide!! I usual a nasal > rinse every day which helps a lot. Singulair did not work for me but > lots of people swear by it, but you need to take it continually to get > the constant benefit. Also what about a home nebuliser, I find that is > my life line, I nebulise Ventolin and Atrovent to keep the airways > open. That is much more effective for me than the same medicines in > inhalers. > Good Luck with getting on top of it all, it's miserable to have to deal > with asthma every day. > Regards from June in Lonon Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 Hi Matt My asthma hasn't been well controlled for a few years and I have had to adjust the kind of exercise I do. Thanks for the comprehensive list of information and tips. I went through it and can't find anything I'd need to change other than getting the carpet out of my bedroom and a hepa filter. I plan to do this as soon as I have the funds. I have tested negative for dustmite allergy, so there's no point in getting a mattrass cover, is there? Thanks again for your help, Judith Herbers > Exercise is the most common trigger of asthma, according to some > experts, however your asthma plan is not satisfactory if exercise > causes coughing and wheezing. When your asthma is well controlled, > you will be able to exercise as long as anyone else your age. > > Do you know what your triggers are? Is your house free of mold dust > and cockroaches? Are you allergic to your pet(s)? Does grass and > pollen trigger your asthma? Are you taking preventive meds and have > rescue medications ready? I ask these questions because they are > all part of a GOOD " Asthma Action Plan " . Every one with asthma needs > a plan. > > Here are some guidelines to avoid triggers. Some people get upset > with some of these rules but you have to be the one who makes the > ultimate decision. Is your helth more important then what you may > have to give up? > > 1. Do not smoke, don't let any smoke in your house. > 2. If you are allergic to your pet(s), find it/them a new home or > keep them outside. You can wash them once a week if you just have to > keep it. > 3. Keep humidity in you house between 25 and 50 percent to reduce > growth of mold. Keep it less then 35 percent to help keep the > cockroach population down. > 4. Remove wall to wall carpet. > 5. Use double thickness vacuum cleaner bags. > 6. Use a HEPA air filter in the bedroom. > 7. Encase your mattress, box springs and pillows with a hypo- > allergenic covering. > 8. Cover your heating/cooling vents with air filters. > 9. Use boric acid rather then spray to kill roaches. > 10. Put stuffed animals in the freezer for one hour a week to kill > dust mites. > 11. Use an exhaust fan in the bathroom and vent the clothes dryer to > the outside to reduce humidity. > 12. Use a ventilating hood over the stove. > 13. Clean your house regularly. Dirt, dust, mold, standing water, > bugs, and animal fur just sitting around the house all make symptoms > worse. > 14. If you have to go outside for exercise, go in the early morning > or late evening or after a rain. This is when pollen is the lowest. > > EXERCISE IS ONE TRIGGER YOU SHOULD NOT AVOID. > > As always, talk to your diction about your asthma and action plan. > > Matt Anders RRT, EMT, AS > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 Hi I am not on antibiotics and don't want to be because the sinus trouble is so chronic. I used a lot of AB for a few years and at the end it didn't really work anymore. I keep my sinus trouble under control with nebulized pulmicort and also use it as a nosedrop. At least that way it keep draining so I don't have sinus headaches. I am sorry to hear about your loss of coverage, here in Holland almost everyone has 100 % coverage for meds, mine are hundreds of euros a month. Can you explain what Advair is? Is it steroidal maintenance or a bronchodilator? Kind regards Judith Herbers > I can understand how you feel. My asthma has been worse lately too. I use Singulair and so far do well on it. I also use Advair, which does control my asthma better, and albuterol. See about a nebulizer. I couldn't live without mine. Are you on antibiotics for the infections? Mine is getting worse every year and I am losing part of my insurance coverage so I have to be careful. If you have more questions just ask. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 Hi I am not on antibiotics and don't want to be because the sinus trouble is so chronic. I used a lot of AB for a few years and at the end it didn't really work anymore. I keep my sinus trouble under control with nebulized pulmicort and also use it as a nosedrop. At least that way it keep draining so I don't have sinus headaches. I am sorry to hear about your loss of coverage, here in Holland almost everyone has 100 % coverage for meds, mine are hundreds of euros a month. Can you explain what Advair is? Is it steroidal maintenance or a bronchodilator? Kind regards Judith Herbers > I can understand how you feel. My asthma has been worse lately too. I use Singulair and so far do well on it. I also use Advair, which does control my asthma better, and albuterol. See about a nebulizer. I couldn't live without mine. Are you on antibiotics for the infections? Mine is getting worse every year and I am losing part of my insurance coverage so I have to be careful. If you have more questions just ask. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 Hi I am not on antibiotics and don't want to be because the sinus trouble is so chronic. I used a lot of AB for a few years and at the end it didn't really work anymore. I keep my sinus trouble under control with nebulized pulmicort and also use it as a nosedrop. At least that way it keep draining so I don't have sinus headaches. I am sorry to hear about your loss of coverage, here in Holland almost everyone has 100 % coverage for meds, mine are hundreds of euros a month. Can you explain what Advair is? Is it steroidal maintenance or a bronchodilator? Kind regards Judith Herbers > I can understand how you feel. My asthma has been worse lately too. I use Singulair and so far do well on it. I also use Advair, which does control my asthma better, and albuterol. See about a nebulizer. I couldn't live without mine. Are you on antibiotics for the infections? Mine is getting worse every year and I am losing part of my insurance coverage so I have to be careful. If you have more questions just ask. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 If you are negative for dust mites, then I don't see any reason you would want to get covers for your bedding. You do have an action plan don't you. A good plan starts with good education of the disease and prevention. Avoid triggers, take your preventive medications, Daily peak flow monitoring, and if you have an attack, use of your rescue medications. > > Exercise is the most common trigger of asthma, according to some > > experts, however your asthma plan is not satisfactory if exercise > > causes coughing and wheezing. When your asthma is well controlled, > > you will be able to exercise as long as anyone else your age. > > > > Do you know what your triggers are? Is your house free of mold dust > > and cockroaches? Are you allergic to your pet(s)? Does grass and > > pollen trigger your asthma? Are you taking preventive meds and have > > rescue medications ready? I ask these questions because they are > > all part of a GOOD " Asthma Action Plan " . Every one with asthma > needs > > a plan. > > > > Here are some guidelines to avoid triggers. Some people get upset > > with some of these rules but you have to be the one who makes the > > ultimate decision. Is your helth more important then what you may > > have to give up? > > > > 1. Do not smoke, don't let any smoke in your house. > > 2. If you are allergic to your pet(s), find it/them a new home or > > keep them outside. You can wash them once a week if you just have > to > > keep it. > > 3. Keep humidity in you house between 25 and 50 percent to reduce > > growth of mold. Keep it less then 35 percent to help keep the > > cockroach population down. > > 4. Remove wall to wall carpet. > > 5. Use double thickness vacuum cleaner bags. > > 6. Use a HEPA air filter in the bedroom. > > 7. Encase your mattress, box springs and pillows with a hypo- > > allergenic covering. > > 8. Cover your heating/cooling vents with air filters. > > 9. Use boric acid rather then spray to kill roaches. > > 10. Put stuffed animals in the freezer for one hour a week to kill > > dust mites. > > 11. Use an exhaust fan in the bathroom and vent the clothes dryer > to > > the outside to reduce humidity. > > 12. Use a ventilating hood over the stove. > > 13. Clean your house regularly. Dirt, dust, mold, standing water, > > bugs, and animal fur just sitting around the house all make > symptoms > > worse. > > 14. If you have to go outside for exercise, go in the early morning > > or late evening or after a rain. This is when pollen is the lowest. > > > > EXERCISE IS ONE TRIGGER YOU SHOULD NOT AVOID. > > > > As always, talk to your diction about your asthma and action plan. > > > > Matt Anders RRT, EMT, AS > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 If you are negative for dust mites, then I don't see any reason you would want to get covers for your bedding. You do have an action plan don't you. A good plan starts with good education of the disease and prevention. Avoid triggers, take your preventive medications, Daily peak flow monitoring, and if you have an attack, use of your rescue medications. > > Exercise is the most common trigger of asthma, according to some > > experts, however your asthma plan is not satisfactory if exercise > > causes coughing and wheezing. When your asthma is well controlled, > > you will be able to exercise as long as anyone else your age. > > > > Do you know what your triggers are? Is your house free of mold dust > > and cockroaches? Are you allergic to your pet(s)? Does grass and > > pollen trigger your asthma? Are you taking preventive meds and have > > rescue medications ready? I ask these questions because they are > > all part of a GOOD " Asthma Action Plan " . Every one with asthma > needs > > a plan. > > > > Here are some guidelines to avoid triggers. Some people get upset > > with some of these rules but you have to be the one who makes the > > ultimate decision. Is your helth more important then what you may > > have to give up? > > > > 1. Do not smoke, don't let any smoke in your house. > > 2. If you are allergic to your pet(s), find it/them a new home or > > keep them outside. You can wash them once a week if you just have > to > > keep it. > > 3. Keep humidity in you house between 25 and 50 percent to reduce > > growth of mold. Keep it less then 35 percent to help keep the > > cockroach population down. > > 4. Remove wall to wall carpet. > > 5. Use double thickness vacuum cleaner bags. > > 6. Use a HEPA air filter in the bedroom. > > 7. Encase your mattress, box springs and pillows with a hypo- > > allergenic covering. > > 8. Cover your heating/cooling vents with air filters. > > 9. Use boric acid rather then spray to kill roaches. > > 10. Put stuffed animals in the freezer for one hour a week to kill > > dust mites. > > 11. Use an exhaust fan in the bathroom and vent the clothes dryer > to > > the outside to reduce humidity. > > 12. Use a ventilating hood over the stove. > > 13. Clean your house regularly. Dirt, dust, mold, standing water, > > bugs, and animal fur just sitting around the house all make > symptoms > > worse. > > 14. If you have to go outside for exercise, go in the early morning > > or late evening or after a rain. This is when pollen is the lowest. > > > > EXERCISE IS ONE TRIGGER YOU SHOULD NOT AVOID. > > > > As always, talk to your diction about your asthma and action plan. > > > > Matt Anders RRT, EMT, AS > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 If you are negative for dust mites, then I don't see any reason you would want to get covers for your bedding. You do have an action plan don't you. A good plan starts with good education of the disease and prevention. Avoid triggers, take your preventive medications, Daily peak flow monitoring, and if you have an attack, use of your rescue medications. > > Exercise is the most common trigger of asthma, according to some > > experts, however your asthma plan is not satisfactory if exercise > > causes coughing and wheezing. When your asthma is well controlled, > > you will be able to exercise as long as anyone else your age. > > > > Do you know what your triggers are? Is your house free of mold dust > > and cockroaches? Are you allergic to your pet(s)? Does grass and > > pollen trigger your asthma? Are you taking preventive meds and have > > rescue medications ready? I ask these questions because they are > > all part of a GOOD " Asthma Action Plan " . Every one with asthma > needs > > a plan. > > > > Here are some guidelines to avoid triggers. Some people get upset > > with some of these rules but you have to be the one who makes the > > ultimate decision. Is your helth more important then what you may > > have to give up? > > > > 1. Do not smoke, don't let any smoke in your house. > > 2. If you are allergic to your pet(s), find it/them a new home or > > keep them outside. You can wash them once a week if you just have > to > > keep it. > > 3. Keep humidity in you house between 25 and 50 percent to reduce > > growth of mold. Keep it less then 35 percent to help keep the > > cockroach population down. > > 4. Remove wall to wall carpet. > > 5. Use double thickness vacuum cleaner bags. > > 6. Use a HEPA air filter in the bedroom. > > 7. Encase your mattress, box springs and pillows with a hypo- > > allergenic covering. > > 8. Cover your heating/cooling vents with air filters. > > 9. Use boric acid rather then spray to kill roaches. > > 10. Put stuffed animals in the freezer for one hour a week to kill > > dust mites. > > 11. Use an exhaust fan in the bathroom and vent the clothes dryer > to > > the outside to reduce humidity. > > 12. Use a ventilating hood over the stove. > > 13. Clean your house regularly. Dirt, dust, mold, standing water, > > bugs, and animal fur just sitting around the house all make > symptoms > > worse. > > 14. If you have to go outside for exercise, go in the early morning > > or late evening or after a rain. This is when pollen is the lowest. > > > > EXERCISE IS ONE TRIGGER YOU SHOULD NOT AVOID. > > > > As always, talk to your diction about your asthma and action plan. > > > > Matt Anders RRT, EMT, AS > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 Hi June, Thanks for the information on HRT, I am going to try to move heaven and earth to not take any hormones, partially because of a risk factor for cancer in my family. If my asthma is aggravated by menopause I do hope it will clear up in a few years. I live rural so pollen in my house is almost unavoidable. And during the winter it's fine dust, during heatwaves ozone and smog. it seems there's always something. best wishes Judith Herbers > Good Morning from London Judith, > Thank you for your kind thoughts of London, it was a huge shock but I > suppose this was inevitable with Bush here. It's very sad and I > do not understand the minds of people who do these things. > On to asthma, I was also 47 when my asthma started to be a problem, > your hormone levels drop long before you show any symptoms of > menopause. If I were you I'd ask your doctor to just do a blood test > which shows your hormone levels. Progesterone is vital in controlling > breathing and affecting smooth muscle and is a critical thing in later > life asthma. Worth checking just to eliminate it. I now have > reluctantly started HRT patches and I have to say the asthma is > improving. > I agree with you on Pred but I find if I take the occasional course > then it really does pick me up again. Taken in a short sharp burst the > harm done is minimal. > The nasal rinses are salt plus bicarbonate of soda and I use a special > bottle called Nasopure to do the rinse. > Pollution is a big problem here in London too, I log onto a London > website which shows the pollution levels each day and what sort of > pollution it is. That is helpful in telling me if I am likely to have > problems. Car pollution is a trigger for me. Last year I had a week in > the Bahamas and was amazed to find my asthma was so good I barely > needed an inhaler. When I got back, within 30 minutes of leaving the > plane my son and I were wheezing. Trouble is short of moving to the > Bahamas what can you do. People in Los Angeles wear smog masks but I > don't really want to walk round wearing a mask!! > Nice to hear from you, keep in touch. > June Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 Hi June, Thanks for the information on HRT, I am going to try to move heaven and earth to not take any hormones, partially because of a risk factor for cancer in my family. If my asthma is aggravated by menopause I do hope it will clear up in a few years. I live rural so pollen in my house is almost unavoidable. And during the winter it's fine dust, during heatwaves ozone and smog. it seems there's always something. best wishes Judith Herbers > Good Morning from London Judith, > Thank you for your kind thoughts of London, it was a huge shock but I > suppose this was inevitable with Bush here. It's very sad and I > do not understand the minds of people who do these things. > On to asthma, I was also 47 when my asthma started to be a problem, > your hormone levels drop long before you show any symptoms of > menopause. If I were you I'd ask your doctor to just do a blood test > which shows your hormone levels. Progesterone is vital in controlling > breathing and affecting smooth muscle and is a critical thing in later > life asthma. Worth checking just to eliminate it. I now have > reluctantly started HRT patches and I have to say the asthma is > improving. > I agree with you on Pred but I find if I take the occasional course > then it really does pick me up again. Taken in a short sharp burst the > harm done is minimal. > The nasal rinses are salt plus bicarbonate of soda and I use a special > bottle called Nasopure to do the rinse. > Pollution is a big problem here in London too, I log onto a London > website which shows the pollution levels each day and what sort of > pollution it is. That is helpful in telling me if I am likely to have > problems. Car pollution is a trigger for me. Last year I had a week in > the Bahamas and was amazed to find my asthma was so good I barely > needed an inhaler. When I got back, within 30 minutes of leaving the > plane my son and I were wheezing. Trouble is short of moving to the > Bahamas what can you do. People in Los Angeles wear smog masks but I > don't really want to walk round wearing a mask!! > Nice to hear from you, keep in touch. > June Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 Hi June, Thanks for the information on HRT, I am going to try to move heaven and earth to not take any hormones, partially because of a risk factor for cancer in my family. If my asthma is aggravated by menopause I do hope it will clear up in a few years. I live rural so pollen in my house is almost unavoidable. And during the winter it's fine dust, during heatwaves ozone and smog. it seems there's always something. best wishes Judith Herbers > Good Morning from London Judith, > Thank you for your kind thoughts of London, it was a huge shock but I > suppose this was inevitable with Bush here. It's very sad and I > do not understand the minds of people who do these things. > On to asthma, I was also 47 when my asthma started to be a problem, > your hormone levels drop long before you show any symptoms of > menopause. If I were you I'd ask your doctor to just do a blood test > which shows your hormone levels. Progesterone is vital in controlling > breathing and affecting smooth muscle and is a critical thing in later > life asthma. Worth checking just to eliminate it. I now have > reluctantly started HRT patches and I have to say the asthma is > improving. > I agree with you on Pred but I find if I take the occasional course > then it really does pick me up again. Taken in a short sharp burst the > harm done is minimal. > The nasal rinses are salt plus bicarbonate of soda and I use a special > bottle called Nasopure to do the rinse. > Pollution is a big problem here in London too, I log onto a London > website which shows the pollution levels each day and what sort of > pollution it is. That is helpful in telling me if I am likely to have > problems. Car pollution is a trigger for me. Last year I had a week in > the Bahamas and was amazed to find my asthma was so good I barely > needed an inhaler. When I got back, within 30 minutes of leaving the > plane my son and I were wheezing. Trouble is short of moving to the > Bahamas what can you do. People in Los Angeles wear smog masks but I > don't really want to walk round wearing a mask!! > Nice to hear from you, keep in touch. > June Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 Hi Matt my pulmonologist doesn't want me to change my meds when I get worse, and she doesn't feel the peak flow charts are reliable. I take 1000 mg of flixotide and 500 of pulmicort for my sinus trouble, and over the years that's quite a large dosage of steroids. I use atrovent 3 times a day and when something really irritates my airways the first thing I do is try and get away from it. Usually that helps enough to prevent a really bad situation. My type of asthma isn't the dramatic exacerbations of an all out attack, it's more the chronic irritations and the sinus trouble on top of that. As far as the sinus question in your other email, I already use the salt water nose drops about 4 times a day. Thanks for all your help, Kind regards Judith Herbers > If you are negative for dust mites, then I don't see any reason you > would want to get covers for your bedding. > > You do have an action plan don't you. A good plan starts with good > education of the disease and prevention. Avoid triggers, take your > preventive medications, Daily peak flow monitoring, and if you have > an attack, use of your rescue medications. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 Hi Matt my pulmonologist doesn't want me to change my meds when I get worse, and she doesn't feel the peak flow charts are reliable. I take 1000 mg of flixotide and 500 of pulmicort for my sinus trouble, and over the years that's quite a large dosage of steroids. I use atrovent 3 times a day and when something really irritates my airways the first thing I do is try and get away from it. Usually that helps enough to prevent a really bad situation. My type of asthma isn't the dramatic exacerbations of an all out attack, it's more the chronic irritations and the sinus trouble on top of that. As far as the sinus question in your other email, I already use the salt water nose drops about 4 times a day. Thanks for all your help, Kind regards Judith Herbers > If you are negative for dust mites, then I don't see any reason you > would want to get covers for your bedding. > > You do have an action plan don't you. A good plan starts with good > education of the disease and prevention. Avoid triggers, take your > preventive medications, Daily peak flow monitoring, and if you have > an attack, use of your rescue medications. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 Hi Matt my pulmonologist doesn't want me to change my meds when I get worse, and she doesn't feel the peak flow charts are reliable. I take 1000 mg of flixotide and 500 of pulmicort for my sinus trouble, and over the years that's quite a large dosage of steroids. I use atrovent 3 times a day and when something really irritates my airways the first thing I do is try and get away from it. Usually that helps enough to prevent a really bad situation. My type of asthma isn't the dramatic exacerbations of an all out attack, it's more the chronic irritations and the sinus trouble on top of that. As far as the sinus question in your other email, I already use the salt water nose drops about 4 times a day. Thanks for all your help, Kind regards Judith Herbers > If you are negative for dust mites, then I don't see any reason you > would want to get covers for your bedding. > > You do have an action plan don't you. A good plan starts with good > education of the disease and prevention. Avoid triggers, take your > preventive medications, Daily peak flow monitoring, and if you have > an attack, use of your rescue medications. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 Hi my pulmonologist likes Symbicort a lot. Like Advair it's both maintenance and bronchodilator. I used to take Serevent and it made my heart race so I switched to Oxis and like it better. But meds can work better for one person than the other. How horrible to only get a certain number of meds, that makes things real hard for persons with multiple illnesses. best wishes Judith > Advair is a combination steroidal maintenance and antiinflammatory drug. The powers that be want to take it off the drug list so I'm going to work with my dr on that to see if we can get it preauthorized. It has helped far more than other meds I have used. Good on the ABs. Stay off them if you can. There are superbugs out there that are resistant now. I will be cut back to 5 meds per month so I'll keep most of my asthma meds and my diabetes med. If I need anything else I'll have to pay for it. I'll just have to stop taking a few meds I'm on as I can't afford them all. Take care, it out! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 Hi my pulmonologist likes Symbicort a lot. Like Advair it's both maintenance and bronchodilator. I used to take Serevent and it made my heart race so I switched to Oxis and like it better. But meds can work better for one person than the other. How horrible to only get a certain number of meds, that makes things real hard for persons with multiple illnesses. best wishes Judith > Advair is a combination steroidal maintenance and antiinflammatory drug. The powers that be want to take it off the drug list so I'm going to work with my dr on that to see if we can get it preauthorized. It has helped far more than other meds I have used. Good on the ABs. Stay off them if you can. There are superbugs out there that are resistant now. I will be cut back to 5 meds per month so I'll keep most of my asthma meds and my diabetes med. If I need anything else I'll have to pay for it. I'll just have to stop taking a few meds I'm on as I can't afford them all. Take care, it out! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2005 Report Share Posted July 8, 2005 Hi my pulmonologist likes Symbicort a lot. Like Advair it's both maintenance and bronchodilator. I used to take Serevent and it made my heart race so I switched to Oxis and like it better. But meds can work better for one person than the other. How horrible to only get a certain number of meds, that makes things real hard for persons with multiple illnesses. best wishes Judith > Advair is a combination steroidal maintenance and antiinflammatory drug. The powers that be want to take it off the drug list so I'm going to work with my dr on that to see if we can get it preauthorized. It has helped far more than other meds I have used. Good on the ABs. Stay off them if you can. There are superbugs out there that are resistant now. I will be cut back to 5 meds per month so I'll keep most of my asthma meds and my diabetes med. If I need anything else I'll have to pay for it. I'll just have to stop taking a few meds I'm on as I can't afford them all. Take care, it out! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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