Getting a bit bored of 3 chest infections a year. Whilst the easy weightloss that always comes with it is a bonus, its a bit of a pain with work. Just had a dose of flu, which has been followed up with a chest infection. GP is making noises about upping my treatment, as my asthma has gone from being completely controlled for decades to a bit all over the place. Plus the chest infections. West Yorkshire climate and West Yorkshire traffic pollution (I commute through central Leeds and Bradford)?
Was on 2x 2puffs QVAR 100 (beclosmetasone 100ug) + salbutamol PRN for forever (30+years)
Have just been moved on to seretide 125 (salmeterol 25ug / fluticasone 125) plus a 5mg desloratadine tablet
Had a blood tests that showed alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. Apparently, I'm a heterozygous carrier. GP says that whilst my consultant may be excited about this, in that I don't smoke, it's of no clinical significance. I had a CT scan of my lungs this week, and will hear back in the next few weeks.
GP suggested I go back for some more oral steroids if this lot doesn't clear it, and that then we'll look at adding an additional fluticasone (Flixotide) inhaler.
Looking at this
treatment ladder, I'm on step 3, and the addition of additional steroids is normal for that step. Bit sad about this. Asthma is something I've not had to think about before, other than to take my "preventer".