Posts belonging to Category 'prednisone treatment for asthma attack'

OT: SOME FUN

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Grace Casselman wrote: > Heh. Did I mention that I’m hyped up on prednisone (40 mg, from none — a > treatment for an asthma attack)? We’ll look at tapering off at my appt. Wed. > "If it’s not working, you’ll come off more quickly." > And my inlaws are here. > And it’s 2 a.m. > I’m prednisone-manic. > :) > G. > p.s. I was horrified to hear they were trying prednisone; all-the-while the > addict in me was going "yes, yes, give me the drugs…." > p.p.s. I’m eating, eating — because I want to, because I can — I want to > weigh in at 100 pounds Wednesday…. (I never thought I’d be here… I’m back > to a childhood weight)

Eat then get to bed ..that’s an order OR how to gain weight the easy way. Hugs Grace, I just woke up and you’re not even in bed? Yikes pred-manic is right. J

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Grace Casselman wrote: > Hi guys: > First, I did an interview for the local daily paper this week, about A > Hole in the Hedge, the shortlisting, being a Big Sister…. They also > interviewed my Little Sister; and we’re supposed to get photographed > Monday. > A city TV news program has booked a 4-minute interview with me on June > 1. Aiiieee. I expressed my concern about a live coughing fit. They > agreed to tape it ahead of time, which makes me more comfortable. > Assuming my breathing/coughing doesn’t get so bad I can’t talk (that > happens!) > Best yet, my publisher is going to publish A Walk in the Park, sequel to > A Hole in the Hedge. (Don’t rush out to buy it… it’s a long process!) > Book 3 will be about a teen who’s suddenly struck with Lupus….so we’ll > talk…. > ….and talk…. > Grace. > p.s. I see my rheumatologist Monday. My lungs are terrible, but we’re > going with that NOT being rheumatological… so it will be interesting > what he thinks of my Lupus post-transplant. I think the conservative > answer is I’m in remission and we’ll see….anyhow, I’ll tell you what > he ACTUALLY says. > I see the cancer doctor on Wed., re. my MRI, and lungs….I see the lung > specialist at the end of the month….but the cancer doctor pages > him…and they talk….

Busy gal, get some rest in between the fun. Hope all goes well with the doctor appointments. Hugs J

Response:

Congratulations Grace! You are our star! Let us know what to look out for to find your interviews re papers and tv channel….. BC is different than Alta. I believe? Keep us updated on those doc appts. too! Good luck with everything! hugs from Shelagh – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -"Grace Casselman"  wrote in message > Hi guys: > First, I did an interview for the local daily paper this week, about A > Hole in the Hedge, the shortlisting, being a Big Sister…. They also > interviewed my Little Sister; and we’re supposed to get photographed > Monday. > A city TV news program has booked a 4-minute interview with me on June > 1. Aiiieee. I expressed my concern about a live coughing fit. They > agreed to tape it ahead of time, which makes me more comfortable. > Assuming my breathing/coughing doesn’t get so bad I can’t talk (that > happens!) > Best yet, my publisher is going to publish A Walk in the Park, sequel to > A Hole in the Hedge. (Don’t rush out to buy it… it’s a long process!) > Book 3 will be about a teen who’s suddenly struck with Lupus….so we’ll > talk…. ….and talk…. > Grace. > p.s. I see my rheumatologist Monday. My lungs are terrible, but we’re > going with that NOT being rheumatological… so it will be interesting > what he thinks of my Lupus post-transplant. I think the conservative > answer is I’m in remission and we’ll see….anyhow, I’ll tell you what > he ACTUALLY says. > I see the cancer doctor on Wed., re. my MRI, and lungs….I see the lung > specialist at the end of the month….but the cancer doctor pages > him…and they talk….

Response:

Hi guys: First, I did an interview for the local daily paper this week, about A Hole in the Hedge, the shortlisting, being a Big Sister…. They also interviewed my Little Sister; and we’re supposed to get photographed Monday. A city TV news program has booked a 4-minute interview with me on June 1. Aiiieee. I expressed my concern about a live coughing fit. They agreed to tape it ahead of time, which makes me more comfortable. Assuming my breathing/coughing doesn’t get so bad I can’t talk (that happens!) Best yet, my publisher is going to publish A Walk in the Park, sequel to A Hole in the Hedge. (Don’t rush out to buy it… it’s a long process!) Book 3 will be about a teen who’s suddenly struck with Lupus….so we’ll talk…. ….and talk…. Grace. p.s. I see my rheumatologist Monday. My lungs are terrible, but we’re going with that NOT being rheumatological… so it will be interesting what he thinks of my Lupus post-transplant. I think the conservative answer is I’m in remission and we’ll see….anyhow, I’ll tell you what he ACTUALLY says. I see the cancer doctor on Wed., re. my MRI, and lungs….I see the lung specialist at the end of the month….but the cancer doctor pages him…and they talk….

Response:

My Evening @ the ER

Question:

We’ve had some pretty massive winds lately… maybe that’s the cause? Who knows, I’m just glad to be breathing better. :) -Ashley C. Gentle hugs sweetie. I have been using a Serevent inhaler which isn’t an emergency inhaler but sort of a way to keep the asthma from getting out of control. I can’t believer how well it has worked for me. You rest and breathe easily. You guys have spring issues in CA? Wonder what triggered the attack for you. Duckie

Ashley C. www.ashleycanterbury.com

Response:

I am glad you are breathing easier too — that is one scary feeling. Must be what people with emphysema feel every day. My ashthma is triggered instantly with second hand cigarette smoke now. I can sometimes keep it quiet by breathing from my mouth and breathing shallowly but one just can’t live that way. Makes me pretty vocal when I pass someone smoking in a no-smoking section like in front of the hospital. After all — they are basically trying to kill me and to not fight for my life goes against one’s instinct. Duckie We’ve had some pretty massive winds lately… maybe that’s the cause? Who knows, I’m just glad to be breathing better. :) -Ashley C.

–   _(‘  (_<_)           _   _(‘< -quack  (_<_)     _    __(‘< *QUACK!* <_{__)   _(‘< "|,,|_"  (_<_)   _(‘< "AFLAC!"  (_<_)

Response:

((((((((Ashley))))))) — Nann remove the Gator cheer to email me I like nonsense; it wakes up the brain cells. – Dr Suess

Response:

Been there, done that way more times than I like to think about! Sure hope you get to feeling better real soon!!! Do you have a nebulizer to use at home?  Did you check to make sure your inhalers are not empty or that they are working properly?

Note: To tell if an inhaler is too near empty to work, put it in a container of water.  If it floats, replace it.  (They will continue to spray after most of the med is gone)  And if you don’t have a spacer, get one.  If you do have a spacer, use it. Jo

Response:

alt.support.arthritis: Note: To tell if an inhaler is too near empty to work, put it in a container of water.  If it floats, replace it.  (They will continue to spray after most of the med is gone)  And if you don’t have a spacer, get one.  If you do have a spacer, use it. Jo

To that, Jo, I’ll add, be sure to take the little ‘canister’ out of the plastic case before you do that. It’s a pretty good indication, I used to do it to check when I needed a refill. The more water is displaced, the more drug is in the inhaler. — Joan Beware Tommy the Troll who is now asking for handouts on the internet.

Response:

Gentle hugs sweetie. I have been using a Serevent inhaler which isn’t an emergency inhaler but sort of a way to keep the asthma from getting out of control. I can’t believer how well it has worked for me. You rest and breathe easily. You guys have spring issues in CA? Wonder what triggered the attack for you. Duckie – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – *sigh* I just got back from the ER, and once again, I find it scary that the nurses and doctors remember me. However, it is kind of cool that they remember my medical history off hand. <g Anyways, all week I had been experiencing a tightening in my chest and it felt like I had bricks on my chest. Earlier this evening it came to the point that I was gasping for breath. I literally COULDN’T breathe. My mom took me to the ER and after a brief wait (in which it was getting harder and harder to breathe) I was able to see the doctor. He immediately realized that I was having an asthma attack. My mom told him that I had used my inhalor 4 times, but he said I might need a stronger script. So… he ordered a breathing a treatment that cleared me right up… such a relief!! They did a chest xray that came back normal, yay! After that they let me go home, but not before adding some meds. The specific dx was severe bronchial spasms. New meds: prednisone 20mg (for 5 days) ventolin inhalor antibiotics for a possible infection (can’t read what it says) -Ashley C. Ashley C. www.ashleycanterbury.com

–   _(‘  (_<_)           _   _(‘< -quack  (_<_)     _    __(‘< *QUACK!* <_{__)   _(‘< "|,,|_"  (_<_)   _(‘< "AFLAC!"  (_<_)

Response:

Ashley, I have been to ER twice for that very same thing, in my case the minute my husband told them I was asthmatic I was attended to right away. It is so scary when you can’t seem to get your next breath. ((((((((((((((((((((((Ashley))))))))))))))))) Dawn0

Response:

Hope you feel better, Ashley! Carol

Response:

Been there, done that at least 50 times.  Make sure when you first arrive at the ER you specifically say you can’t breathe. Puts you right at the top of the list and cuts down on the wait. Do you have a doc that is an Asthma specialist?  There are quite a few things you can use now to help control attacks.  And to prevent attacks.  Be well! — Jo Firey "Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – *sigh* I just got back from the ER, and once again, I find it scary that the nurses and doctors remember me. However, it is kind of cool that they remember my medical history off hand. <g Anyways, all week I had been experiencing a tightening in my chest and it felt like I had bricks on my chest. Earlier this evening it came to the point that I was gasping for breath. I literally COULDN’T breathe. My mom took me to the ER and after a brief wait (in which it was getting harder and harder to breathe) I was able to see the doctor. He immediately realized that I was having an asthma attack. My mom told him that I had used my inhalor 4 times, but he said I might need a stronger script. So… he ordered a breathing a treatment that cleared me right up… such a relief!! They did a chest xray that came back normal, yay! After that they let me go home, but not before adding some meds. The specific dx was severe bronchial spasms. New meds: prednisone 20mg (for 5 days) ventolin inhalor antibiotics for a possible infection (can’t read what it says) -Ashley C. Ashley C. www.ashleycanterbury.com

Response:

  My son has terrible asthma and his doc prescribed a home nebulizer. It really helps when his inhalers don’t work. Would your doc prescribe one for you? Hope today is a better day for you! Hoping your hills are never too steep! Be well, Patty

Response:

Melinda

Response:

Take it easy kiddo.  Let your body heal. Prayers on the way. Char "Remember, I’m pulling for ya’.  We’re all in this together."  Red Green

Response:

*sigh* I just got back from the ER, and once again, I find it scary that the nurses and doctors remember me. However, it is kind of cool that they remember my medical history off hand. <g Anyways, all week I had been experiencing a tightening in my chest and it felt like I had bricks on my chest. Earlier this evening it came to the point that I was gasping for breath. I literally COULDN’T breathe. My mom took me to the ER and after a brief wait (in which it was getting harder and harder to breathe) I was able to see the doctor. He immediately realized that I was having an asthma attack. My mom told him that I had used my inhalor 4 times, but he said I might need a stronger script. So… he ordered a breathing a treatment that cleared me right up… such a relief!! They did a chest xray that came back normal, yay! After that they let me go home, but not before adding some meds. The specific dx was severe bronchial spasms. New meds: prednisone 20mg (for 5 days) ventolin inhalor antibiotics for a possible infection (can’t read what it says) -Ashley C. Ashley C. www.ashleycanterbury.com

Response:

Been there, done that way more times than I like to think about! Sure hope you get to feeling better real soon!!! Do you have a nebulizer to use at home?  Did you check to make sure your inhalers are not empty or that they are working properly? Good luck, hope you can get some rest tonight!!! Donna G

Response:

Gosh Ashley!  You sure seem to be having a rough time of it lately.  In a way, it’s good they recognize you in the ER – saves you from having to repeat all that stuff when you are short of breath, right?  When you see the doctor the next time you might want to ask them about prescribing a nebulizer for home use.  After three trips to the ER for neb treatments, my doctor had one prescribed for me as well as the medicine to use in it.  It’s seldom that I have to actually use it, but it sure has saved complications and trips to the dr or ER since I had it.  Sounds like with your asthma it is time for that. Hope you are feeling better today. — Cyberhugs, DianeW It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye. –Antoine de Saint Exup

OTP – Micah Update – Long

Question:

Micah came home from his youth conference last night.  I talked to several of the boys in his group and to the adult leaders.  I’m glad I didn’t know the details Wednesday night. Micah had been playing Frisbee football out on the lawn in front of the dorm with the boys (they were staying in college dorms).  About 10pm he went inside saying he was tired and couldn’t catch his breath.  About a half our later, the rest of the boys and their chaperone went inside and found Micah gray and unable to stand.  So, they ran to find the nurse. You see, like most youth groups, they had required all of the youth to give the nurse their medications, including inhalers.  I wasn’t worried about that since Micah hadn’t been having any problems.  But this night, the nurse was in the cafeteria getting a snack.  So by the time the boys found him, ran to his dorm to get his bag, then ran back to Micah, 45 minutes had elapsed. That’s when things started going down hill.  It seems this nurse, who has an asthmatic son of his own, doesn’t know much about respiratory distress.  The first thing he did was make Micah lay down – WRONG!  A person having an asthma attack should always be sitting up, supported against a wall or some other support.  According to our neighbor who was chaperoning the group, Micah turned blue almost immediately.  That’s when he and the nurse started arguing about whether or not to call an ambulance.   It was only after two attempts to give him his inhaler failed to produce any changes that they decided to call the paramedics – another wasted 30 minutes.  Actually, the police officer who had seen one of the boys running wildly about the campus trying to find help was the one who made the decision.  As my neighbor put it – the nurse just stood their and didn’t know what to do.  Seems he is a psych nurse and hasn’t ever worked an ER, so he really wasn’t prepared to handle an emergency.   But, at least the paramedics knew what to do.  They sat him up – causing an immediate improvement – pushed some fluids into him and got him to the ER.  There he received two nebulizer treatments and a butt full of prednisone.  They sent him home with a prescription for 20 mg/day of prednisone and 3/day inhaler treatments.   I wonder if that nurse realizes how close we all came to losing Micah. I know the boys do.  They all came up to me last night and told me how scared they were, and that they had been watching Micah really closely since then.  His roommate, Jeremy, said he couldn’t sleep at all the rest of the trip because he kept listening to hear if Micah was breathing.  Poor kid. Micah has an appointment with his pediatrician Monday morning.  I am going to demand a referral to a pulmonologist and we will be putting Micah on a more aggressive treatment regimen.  Then maybe, in a year or two, I’ll be able to let him out of my sight again. Walt

Response:

Walt, There are so many good products out there for asthma. I was determined to have all sorts of lung problems due to my Primary SjS. First they tried Advair-a combo disc inhaler-but I couldn’t tolerate one of the ingredients-it hyped me up too much and I couldn’t sleep. So I am on Flovent-which is an inhaled steroid. And the newest drug they have added is Singulair. It is an oral medication that has similar properties to prednisone, in that it is an anti-inflammatory, but it does’t have the side effects long term prednisone use can have. Singulair has REALLY helped me! The pulmonologist has been so helpful! I told him at my last visit that I think I am at about 60% improvement. He said he thinks for me, this is going to be about as good as it gets. That’s okay with me. I am happy to see ANY improvement! Since I sing and do public speaking, this was so important. My doctors are all consulting with each other about also putting me on a DMARD-probably Methotrexate since the lung thing is related to SjS and so is my neuropathy and other health problems I’ve been having. Anyway, I just thought I would put my plug in for getting the referral for a pulmonologist. Also, that there are good meds-like Singulair that really help. My prayers are with Micah and you all, Kathy W.

Response:

Hi Walt,   Thank goodness  Micah recovered. My nephew is asthmatic and uses an inhaler. It’s pretty scary when he has an attack.        Alison

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Micah came home from his youth conference last night.  I talked to several of the boys in his group and to the adult leaders.  I’m glad I didn’t know the details Wednesday night. Micah had been playing Frisbee football out on the lawn in front of the dorm with the boys (they were staying in college dorms).  About 10pm he went inside saying he was tired and couldn’t catch his breath.  About a half our later, the rest of the boys and their chaperone went inside and found Micah gray and unable to stand.  So, they ran to find the nurse. You see, like most youth groups, they had required all of the youth to give the nurse their medications, including inhalers.  I wasn’t worried about that since Micah hadn’t been having any problems.  But this night, the nurse was in the cafeteria getting a snack.  So by the time the boys found him, ran to his dorm to get his bag, then ran back to Micah, 45 minutes had elapsed. That’s when things started going down hill.  It seems this nurse, who has an asthmatic son of his own, doesn’t know much about respiratory distress.  The first thing he did was make Micah lay down – WRONG!  A person having an asthma attack should always be sitting up, supported against a wall or some other support.  According to our neighbor who was chaperoning the group, Micah turned blue almost immediately.  That’s when he and the nurse started arguing about whether or not to call an ambulance. It was only after two attempts to give him his inhaler failed to produce any changes that they decided to call the paramedics – another wasted 30 minutes.  Actually, the police officer who had seen one of the boys running wildly about the campus trying to find help was the one who made the decision.  As my neighbor put it – the nurse just stood their and didn’t know what to do.  Seems he is a psych nurse and hasn’t ever worked an ER, so he really wasn’t prepared to handle an emergency. But, at least the paramedics knew what to do.  They sat him up – causing an immediate improvement – pushed some fluids into him and got him to the ER.  There he received two nebulizer treatments and a butt full of prednisone.  They sent him home with a prescription for 20 mg/day of prednisone and 3/day inhaler treatments. I wonder if that nurse realizes how close we all came to losing Micah. I know the boys do.  They all came up to me last night and told me how scared they were, and that they had been watching Micah really closely since then.  His roommate, Jeremy, said he couldn’t sleep at all the rest of the trip because he kept listening to hear if Micah was breathing.  Poor kid. Micah has an appointment with his pediatrician Monday morning.  I am going to demand a referral to a pulmonologist and we will be putting Micah on a more aggressive treatment regimen.  Then maybe, in a year or two, I’ll be able to let him out of my sight again. Walt

Response:

I am sorry to hear about what a traumatic event this really was, and I feel very sorry for the roommate who worried so that he didn’t sleep well. That young man will probably make a great father some day!;o) I hope you and Micah get some good response and better treatment in the future. He sounds like a real trouper though, to not want to come home after such a harrowing adventure. (((Walt & Micah))) Best wishes, Kelly C.;o)

Response:

That nurse is a menace, and so is the camp’s medical emergency policy, if they have one.  The nurse on call needs to be properly trained, and they also need to carry a cell phone at all times, so that they can be reached immediately if they are not in the first aid area.  Something needs to be done immediately before somebody dies. Becky

Response:

That nurse is a menace, and so is the camp’s medical

emergency policy, if they have one.  The nurse on call needs to be properly trained, and they also need to carry a cell phone at all times, so that they can be reached immediately if they are not in the first aid area.

Something needs to be done immediately before somebody dies. Becky

Also ANY nurse has to do an ER rotation as part of their training.  A later specialty is no excuse.  Even psyc patients have medical emergencies. Jo

Response:

I’m glad I didn’t know the details Wednesday night.

It’s just as well that you didnt know the details until now. It was a close call.  But he DID survive it.  So just say "Thank you, God.", and try not to get too protective.  If you hold him too tight he is gonna rebell and do something risky. I am really glad he is OK. Char "Remember, I’m pulling for ya’.  We’re all in this together."  Red Green

Response:

I agree, great post!     Two sons with airway probs due to allergy..and there’s more choices these days. I can’t be dragging the nebulizer to school to fire it up.      One pediatrician made his own combo concoction that really helped my son ASAP. One part was Visteril (sp?) and I dunno what the other part was…we saw him while up north for a funeral.      So if you can get a liquid bronchodialator it might help to idiot proof those who are responsible for supervision of Micah when you aren’t.        Kathy’s mucho correct…you’ve got choices available as a knowledgeable Dad. :-) Best of Luck Hugs from Rosie — "If you wanna get it done, you gotta fight for yourself." — Meat Loaf, Bat Outta Hell II

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Walt, There are so many good products out there for asthma. I was determined to have all sorts of lung problems due to my Primary SjS. First they tried Advair-a combo disc inhaler-but I couldn’t tolerate one of the ingredients-it hyped me up too much and I couldn’t sleep. So I am on Flovent-which is an inhaled steroid. And the newest drug they have added is Singulair. It is an oral medication that has similar properties to prednisone, in that it is an anti-inflammatory, but it does’t have the side effects long term prednisone use can have. Singulair has REALLY helped me! The pulmonologist has been so helpful! I told him at my last visit that I think I am at about 60% improvement. He said he thinks for me, this is going to be about as good as it gets. That’s okay with me. I am happy to see ANY improvement! Since I sing and do public speaking, this was so important. My doctors are all consulting with each other about also putting me on a DMARD-probably Methotrexate since the lung thing is related to SjS and so is my neuropathy and other health problems I’ve been having. Anyway, I just thought I would put my plug in for getting the referral for a pulmonologist. Also, that there are good meds-like Singulair that really help. My prayers are with Micah and you all, Kathy W.

Response:

Walt, I imagine Micah was pretty scared too.  Am so glad it worked out well. And I also would want more agressive treatment for him.  Will continue in prayer for all of you. Gwen L. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Micah came home from his youth conference last night.  I talked to several of the boys in his group and to the adult leaders.  I’m glad I didn’t know the details Wednesday night. Micah had been playing Frisbee football out on the lawn in front of the dorm with the boys (they were staying in college dorms).  About 10pm he went inside saying he was tired and couldn’t catch his breath.  About a half our later, the rest of the boys and their chaperone went inside and found Micah gray and unable to stand.  So, they ran to find the nurse. You see, like most youth groups, they had required all of the youth to give the nurse their medications, including inhalers.  I wasn’t worried about that since Micah hadn’t been having any problems.  But this night, the nurse was in the cafeteria getting a snack.  So by the time the boys found him, ran to his dorm to get his bag, then ran back to Micah, 45 minutes had elapsed. That’s when things started going down hill.  It seems this nurse, who has an asthmatic son of his own, doesn’t know much about respiratory distress.  The first thing he did was make Micah lay down – WRONG!  A person having an asthma attack should always be sitting up, supported against a wall or some other support.  According to our neighbor who was chaperoning the group, Micah turned blue almost immediately.  That’s when he and the nurse started arguing about whether or not to call an ambulance.   It was only after two attempts to give him his inhaler failed to produce any changes that they decided to call the paramedics – another wasted 30 minutes.  Actually, the police officer who had seen one of the boys running wildly about the campus trying to find help was the one who made the decision.  As my neighbor put it – the nurse just stood their and didn’t know what to do.  Seems he is a psych nurse and hasn’t ever worked an ER, so he really wasn’t prepared to handle an emergency.   But, at least the paramedics knew what to do.  They sat him up – causing an immediate improvement – pushed some fluids into him and got him to the ER.  There he received two nebulizer treatments and a butt full of prednisone.  They sent him home with a prescription for 20 mg/day of prednisone and 3/day inhaler treatments.   I wonder if that nurse realizes how close we all came to losing Micah. I know the boys do.  They all came up to me last night and told me how scared they were, and that they had been watching Micah really closely since then.  His roommate, Jeremy, said he couldn’t sleep at all the rest of the trip because he kept listening to hear if Micah was breathing.  Poor kid. Micah has an appointment with his pediatrician Monday morning.  I am going to demand a referral to a pulmonologist and we will be putting Micah on a more aggressive treatment regimen.  Then maybe, in a year or two, I’ll be able to let him out of my sight again. Walt

Response:

Holy cow Walt!!!  Such incompetence from a medical professional!!!  Good thing we didn’t know about all of this as well, or we definitely would have had to send out the posse!!!  I have severe lung problems, so I can relate!!!  Finding a good pulmonologist for Micah is an excellent idea!!!  They really are the ones to deal with this type of thing and to hopefully work with your son to help avoid these types of problems in the future! Hugs to you all, and sending up even more praises that things turned out as well as they did!!! God bless!!! Donna G

Response:

My daughter had asthma until the day she died.She was diagnosed when she was two ,ER trips were a every week thing.When she went off to camp I was on pins and needles until she return.Her friends would always worry about her their were a few times when it was touch and go.I an glad to hear everything is better now so you can breath a little now.Make sure you take care of your self this is very stressful.I will pray that you and your son has better days ahead . Judy V.

Response:

Walt, Glad to hear things are better now though. debbie m.

Response:

I am so glad Micah is OK.  Sounds like he had quite a scare. Sarah L "Friends are those people who know the words to the song in your heart and sing them back to you when you have forgotten the words."  (unattributed)

Response:

Duckie – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Micah came home from his youth conference last night.  I talked to several of the boys in his group and to the adult leaders.  I’m glad I didn’t know the details Wednesday night. Micah had been playing Frisbee football out on the lawn in front of the dorm with the boys (they were staying in college dorms).  About 10pm he went inside saying he was tired and couldn’t catch his breath.  About a half our later, the rest of the boys and their chaperone went inside and found Micah gray and unable to stand.  So, they ran to find the nurse. You see, like most youth groups, they had required all of the youth to give the nurse their medications, including inhalers.  I wasn’t worried about that since Micah hadn’t been having any problems.  But this night, the nurse was in the cafeteria getting a snack.  So by the time the boys found him, ran to his dorm to get his bag, then ran back to Micah, 45 minutes had elapsed. That’s when things started going down hill.  It seems this nurse, who has an asthmatic son of his own, doesn’t know much about respiratory distress.  The first thing he did was make Micah lay down – WRONG!  A person having an asthma attack should always be sitting up, supported against a wall or some other support.  According to our neighbor who was chaperoning the group, Micah turned blue almost immediately.  That’s when he and the nurse started arguing about whether or not to call an ambulance. It was only after two attempts to give him his inhaler failed to produce any changes that they decided to call the paramedics – another wasted 30 minutes.  Actually, the police officer who had seen one of the boys running wildly about the campus trying to find help was the one who made the decision.  As my neighbor put it – the nurse just stood their and didn’t know what to do.  Seems he is a psych nurse and hasn’t ever worked an ER, so he really wasn’t prepared to handle an emergency. But, at least the paramedics knew what to do.  They sat him up – causing an immediate improvement – pushed some fluids into him and got him to the ER.  There he received two nebulizer treatments and a butt full of prednisone.  They sent him home with a prescription for 20 mg/day of prednisone and 3/day inhaler treatments. I wonder if that nurse realizes how close we all came to losing Micah. I know the boys do.  They all came up to me last night and told me how scared they were, and that they had been watching Micah really closely since then.  His roommate, Jeremy, said he couldn’t sleep at all the rest of the trip because he kept listening to hear if Micah was breathing.  Poor kid. Micah has an appointment with his pediatrician Monday morning.  I am going to demand a referral to a pulmonologist and we will be putting Micah on a more aggressive treatment regimen.  Then maybe, in a year or two, I’ll be able to let him out of my sight again. Walt

Response:

Vanceril shortage?

Question:

We had a problem here in Hawaii with Albuterol by Dey. But I think its been resolved. I used to use Beclovent and recently switched to Vanceril.  I tried Flovent for awhile but it didn’t seem to work.  Has anyone else had a similar experience?

Yes, I have done well on Vanceril and Beclovent.  The Flovent didn’t seem to do anything and even made me feel worse. Mabel

Response:

: : I am curious to know the definitive word on drug side effects.  I have : heard : from some people that Flovent and other steroid inhalants can cause loss : of : bone density and thinning/easy bruising of the skin.  If so,  how much of : a : dosage and for how long must one be on these medications to experience : these effects? : : Hello John, : : I experienced systemic side effects from 2 puffs Flovent 44 b.i.d. and am : now on 1 puff 220 b.i.d.  I hate the side effects, but the alternative is : certainly less desirable.  I also take Serevent and Accolate.  Seems like a : lot, but at least I can breathe well! Take your minerals and exercise to reduce the bone loss. Make sure you hormones are OK. That doesn’t just apply to women my testerone level was 125 when normal is 350 to 950. Tonic water helps some of us with cramps. Use an extender to reduce the amount of the flovent you get in your mouth and rinse and gargle. And it beat the hell out of predizsone buy a WHOLE lot. — Gordon    W5RED www.couger.com/gcouger

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – : : : Hello John, : : I experienced systemic side effects from 2 puffs Flovent 44 b.i.d. and am : now on 1 puff 220 b.i.d.  I hate the side effects, but the alternative is : certainly less desirable.  I also take Serevent and Accolate.  Seems like a : lot, but at least I can breathe well! Take your minerals and exercise to reduce the bone loss. Make sure you hormones are OK. That doesn’t just apply to women my testerone level was 125 when normal is 350 to 950. Tonic water helps some of us with cramps. Use an extender to reduce the amount of the flovent you get in your mouth and rinse and gargle. And it beat the hell out of predizsone buy a WHOLE lot.

HI Gordon, I do all of the above (except not nearly enough walking), including extra calcium since a DEXA Scan showed bone loss.  I am also taking estrogen as Alesse-28 for a number of reasons including protection from additional bone loss.  Of course, the orthopedist wasn’t happy with the Flovent, but I told him I have no alternatives! Someone once told me years ago your body goes to hell after 45 and I just laughed.  I’m not laughing now. Patrice

Response:

Can you tell me more about Pulmicort Turbuhaler? I’ve used Beclovent and now Vanceril for years? I tried Flovent and it didn’t seem to work. Actually I was doing great for 2 months after I had 3 acupuncture treatments. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello: We have a problem in this area, N.California, possible caused be the manufacture Schering. Is there any shortages in other parts of the U.S.? Take Care. B. Have you tried to get the new version, Vanceril DS [double strength]. Same thing but you only need half as many puffs. Beclovent is exactly the same thing as Vanceril [regular strength]. [both are beclomethasone, 42 ug/pf] The newer steroid inhalers, Pulmicort Turbuhaler [my favorite] and Flovent are gaining favor. Ellis

Response:

Yes, I switched from large quantities of Beclovent(Vanceryl) maybe sixteen to twenty puffs a day to Pulmicort six or seven weeks ago: four inhalations daily. My (exercise/stress induced) asthma has really come under control since the change.  I’m tickled pink.

Response:

Mr. John Theaker your curiosity about the side effects of asthma medications makes me suspect you’ve heard a lot about how bad ’steroids and hormones are from people who know,  neither by experience nor training. My experience is this:  when I presented myself with asthma and emphysema in 1994 the doctors prescribed  corticosteroids,  which was the standard treatment in  America then as it is now  througout the western world. "Hmmm steroids, om’a god that’s hormones"  I worried (worry-worry) And so  I   s t i n t e d .   Oh yeah,  I took’em: But not as much or as many as what I needed.  (A Spanish doctor  I met in India that year confirmed my fears: he didn’ believe in’em either.) And so I stnted and stinted and stinted. And deteriorated. An’ deteriorated. For over six years. About eight months ago we upped the dose and subsequently switched to a more powerful type.  And you know what happened?  Relief that’s what. The symptoms are under control.  I’m  using  the rescue inhaler  less fequently.  And getting a good night’s sleep. You can too.  All my best enthusiasm.–jack

Response:

Pulmicort Turbuhaler is budesonide. Comes as a dry powder inhaler, 200 pf/container. Made by Astra of Sweden. Re; Vanceril; it’s available as double strength, Vanceril DS, takes half as many puffs. Pulmicort will take even less puffs. I use 1 pf twice/day. Web site: http://www.twistclickinhale.com/  Pulmicort Ellis – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Can you tell me more about Pulmicort Turbuhaler? I’ve used Beclovent and now Vanceril for years? I tried Flovent and it didn’t seem to work. Actually I was doing great for 2 months after I had 3 acupuncture treatments.

Response:

Jack – you are right about steroids.  If you need them there is no substitute! I’ve been in the ER and ICU several times, even while On Steroids (which I still am.) BUT – without the steroids I would have died before I ever got to the ER!  They are life- savers to some. Yes, there are bad side effects, as there are with many drugs.  But when the choice is to live with side effects, or die – well, that really isn’t  a choice is it? ..and I’m talking about alot worse side ffects than cramps.  But that’s life.

Response:

I am curious to know the definitive word on drug side effects.  I have heard from some people that Flovent and other steroid inhalants can cause loss of bone density and thinning/easy bruising of the skin.  If so,  how much of a dosage and for how long must one be on these medications to experience

these effects? Hello John, I experienced systemic side effects from 2 puffs Flovent 44 b.i.d. and am now on 1 puff 220 b.i.d.  I hate the side effects, but the alternative is certainly less desirable.  I also take Serevent and Accolate.  Seems like a lot, but at least I can breathe well! Best wishes, Patrice

Response:

We had a problem here in Hawaii with Albuterol by Dey. But I think its been resolved. I used to use Beclovent and recently switched to Vanceril.  I tried Flovent for awhile but it didn’t seem to work.  Has anyone else had a similar experience? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello: We have a problem in this area, N.California, possible caused be the manufacture Schering. Is there any shortages in other parts of the U.S.? Take Care. B.

Response:

writes: Hello: We have a problem in this area, N.California, possible caused be the manufacture Schering. Is there any shortages in other parts of the U.S.? Take Care. B.

      I don’t know if there is still a shortage here but there was a while back. We were unable to get Vanceril, switched to Beclovent, then the Dr. switched DD to Flovent. She’s doing very well. Talk to your Dr. I’m sure he’ll be able to find the right alternative for you. Debi Debi   "Of all the things I’ve lost, I miss my mind the most!"

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am curious to know the definitive word on drug side effects.  I have heard from some people that Flovent and other steroid inhalants can cause loss of bone density and thinning/easy bruising of the skin.  If so,  how much of a dosage and for how long must one be on these medications to experience these effects? Just the thought of this happening has been a major reason why I’ve been reluctant to take my prescribed medications (Flovent/Serevent/Singulair). Another reason is that I feel no different being on or off these meds. In other words, I am not getting complete relief. This, of course, I will take up with my Allergist.  Confidence in my current Doc is shaky. Summary of ?s… -do steriod inhalants cause thinning of skin and loss of bone density?

Yes, in sufficiently high doses. The higher the inhaled dose and the bioavailability (systemic ansorption) must be considered. With a low potency and highly absorbed drug, like Azmacort, it is not at all uncommon to see systemic steroid effects. The newer agents like Flovent, Pulmicort, and the upcomming mometasone (I think they are going to call it Asthmanex – same steroid as Nasonex) are all more potent and less bioavailable. Specifically with Flovent, I think the numbers Colin and Ellis gave are probably pretty reasonable. I wouldn’t expect to see much systemic effects at "normal" doses. Of course, the effectes of these inhaled meds will always be less than the equivalent dose of oral steroids so if a dose escalation is needed it is usually better to go to higher than normal doses of the inhaled steroid rather than oral prednisone of possible. -I know that Flovent is a corticosteriod.  What about Serevent and Singulair (leukotrine (sic?) blocker/antagonist.

Fovent is a steroid, the others are not. -How long and how much of a dosage to experience these effects (if any)?

Highly variable. Generally steroid effects are cummulative over time. -I have heard that sometimes it may take several months for Asthma meds to take effect?  Is this true?

Usually not. I would expect to see some response much sooner. It might take several weeks to months to see the full effect. -I have heard Dr. Gabe Mirkin (on his radio show) state that he believes that Asthma could indeed be caused by an infection (mycoplasma)  He feels that aggressive long term antibiotic treatment can clear up

asthma (translation…cure?) He is looking for an audience for his radio show. Of course, he will try to come up with something new and inflammatory to say. Would you listen if he said your doctor knows what he is doing, follow his advice? If he could prove his theory he would run a trial and become an instant sensation for having found the cure. -if Asthma is exacerbated by inhaling mold spores,  could a fungal infection perpetuate in one’s lungs and be unaffected by ashtma meds?

Usually not. There is something called allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis that entales a persisitent mold infection and is hard to treat. Most people just have allergies to molds and no persisitent infection. The best course is to try to reduce the exposure to your triggers. -is there a definitive Asthma test?  I have had lung volume and that is it. What would be the next step in determining a diagnosis?

If the spirometry (the lung volume test) did not show obstructive disease, as I would assume yours should since you have been symptomatic, I would question the diagnosis. Since asthma is reversible it is possible for the spirometry to be done on a day that you are doing well and have it come back as normal. If this is the case then an asthma attack can be induced in the lab with methacholine to establish the diagnosis. If you were having symptoms on the day of the test this would not be expected to be your situation. Thank you all for reading this long post. Perhaps any MDs that monitor this list could chime in with their knowledge, thoughts, and experiences. As well of course,  as all others on the list.

If you are not responding to the meds then other triggers should be sought and the question confirmed. It might be useful to see a specialist at this point. It would be interesting to know what the spirometry showed and how you were feeling that day. — CBI, MD

Response:

Hello: We have a problem in this area, N.California, possible caused be the manufacture Schering. Is there any shortages in other parts of the U.S.? Take Care. B.

Have you tried to get the new version, Vanceril DS [double strength]. Same thing but you only need half as many puffs. Beclovent is exactly the same thing as Vanceril [regular strength]. [both are beclomethasone, 42 ug/pf] The newer steroid inhalers, Pulmicort Turbuhaler [my favorite] and Flovent are gaining favor. Ellis

Response:

-do steriod inhalants cause thinning of skin and loss of bone density?

They _can_ do this.  The chances of it occurring are dose dependent. Typically the loss of bone density is not associated with the inhaled steroids. BTW, without anti-inflammitoey medications you are at risk for permanent damage to your airways (known as ‘airways remodeling). -I know that Flovent is a corticosteriod.  What about Serevent and Singulair (leukotrine (sic?) blocker/antagonist.

Serevent is a long acting bronchodilator.  I personally dislike this medication as it does not treat the asthma it merely suppresses the symptoms. Singulair is a leukotrine receptor agonist.  It interferes with the functioning of an inflammatory mediator chemical. -How long and how much of a dosage to experience these effects (if any)?

The rule of thumb is that the chances of side effects occurring and very small for doses under 1mg/day (1000 micrograms).  This is what is commonly considered to be the ‘threshold level.’ -I have heard that sometimes it may take several months for Asthma meds to take effect?  Is this true?

Several days to several weeks. -I have heard Dr. Gabe Mirkin (on his radio show) state that he believes that Asthma could indeed be caused by an infection (mycoplasma) He feels that aggressive long term antibiotic treatment can clear up asthma (translation…cure?)

This is a theory that does not have a lot of support.  Be wary of anybody who claims to be able to treat asthma, There Is No Cure For Asthma.  Anybody who claims otherwise is trying to rip you off. -if Asthma is exacerbated by inhaling mold spores,  could a fungal infection perpetuate in one’s lungs and be unaffected by ashtma meds? (as stated earlier, these meds have had little or no effect on me, except to burn my lungs (Flovent), and waking up feeling hungover (Singulair) -is there a definitive Asthma test?  I have had lung volume and that is it. What would be the next step in determining a diagnosis?

Your best bet is to get a referral to an asthma specialist.  There are a number of tests which can suggest asthma. "Keep looking below surface appearances. Don’t shrink from doing so (just) because you might not like what you find."    General Colin Powell

Response:

I am curious to know the definitive word on drug side effects.  I have heard from some people that Flovent and other steroid inhalants can cause loss of bone density and thinning/easy bruising of the skin.  If so,  how much of a dosage and for how long must one be on these medications to experience these effects? Just the thought of this happening has been a major reason why I’ve been reluctant to take my prescribed medications (Flovent/Serevent/Singulair). Another reason is that I feel no different being on or off these meds. In other words, I am not getting complete relief. This, of course, I will take up with my Allergist.  Confidence in my current Doc is shaky.   Summary of ?s… -do steriod inhalants cause thinning of skin and loss of bone density? -I know that Flovent is a corticosteriod.  What about Serevent and Singulair (leukotrine (sic?) blocker/antagonist. -How long and how much of a dosage to experience these effects (if any)? -I have heard that sometimes it may take several months for Asthma meds to take effect?  Is this true? -I have heard Dr. Gabe Mirkin (on his radio show) state that he believes that Asthma could indeed be caused by an infection (mycoplasma)  He feels that aggressive long term antibiotic treatment can clear up asthma (translation…cure?) -if Asthma is exacerbated by inhaling mold spores,  could a fungal infection perpetuate in one’s lungs and be unaffected by ashtma meds? (as stated earlier, these meds have had little or no effect on me, except to burn my lungs (Flovent), and waking up feeling hungover (Singulair) -is there a definitive Asthma test?  I have had lung volume and that is it. What would be the next step in determining a diagnosis? Thank you all for reading this long post. Perhaps any MDs that monitor this list could chime in with their knowledge, thoughts, and experiences. As well of course,  as all others on the list. Blessed Easter to All, John Theaker Windsor, Ontario, Canada

Response:

I am curious to know the definitive word on drug side effects.  I have heard from some people that Flovent and other steroid inhalants can cause loss of bone density and thinning/easy bruising of the skin.  If so,  how much of a dosage and for how long must one be on these medications to experience these effects? Just the thought of this happening has been a major reason why I’ve been reluctant to take my prescribed medications (Flovent/Serevent/Singulair). Another reason is that I feel no different being on or off these meds. In other words, I am not getting complete relief. This, of course, I will take up with my Allergist.  Confidence in my current Doc is shaky. Summary of ?s… -do steriod inhalants cause thinning of skin and loss of bone density?

Not likely at low to medium dose; at high dose could start to have some of these effects. Steroids should always be used in the lowest dose to control the symptoms. This can be achieved using a peak flow meter to monitor lung function and an Action Plan to adjust drugs to stay in the Green Zone without overdosing on the steroids. -I know that Flovent is a corticosteriod.  What about Serevent and Singulair (leukotrine (sic?) blocker/antagonist.

Nope. Serevent is a bronchodilator.  Singlulair an antileuketriene drug. -How long and how much of a dosage to experience these effects (if any)?

For Flovent,  High Dose is  more than 660 mcg/day. -I have heard that sometimes it may take several months for Asthma meds to take effect?  Is this true?

Serevent takes 15 min to start taking effect. Singulair can start to take effect within hours, but usually a 7 day trial is recommended to see if it helps. It only helps 2/3 who try it; if it doesn’t help it should be stopped. Flovent should start taking effect within hours but may take days or weeks to control the asthma. -I have heard Dr. Gabe Mirkin (on his radio show) state that he believes that Asthma could indeed be caused by an infection (mycoplasma)  He feels that aggressive long term antibiotic treatment can clear up asthma (translation…cure?)

I don’t think so. At least studies have not shown this to be a cause of asthma. -if Asthma is exacerbated by inhaling mold spores,  could a fungal infection perpetuate in one’s lungs and be unaffected by ashtma meds? (as stated earlier, these meds have had little or no effect on me, except to burn my lungs (Flovent), and waking up feeling hungover (Singulair)

There are lung diseases caused by mold; like farmer’s lung or aspergillosis. This could co-exist with asthma. -is there a definitive Asthma test?  I have had lung volume and that is it. What would be the next step in determining a diagnosis?

Asthma test; lung function is measured before and after giving a bronchodilator inhaler like albuterol/salbutamol; a signigicant improvement in lung function post bronchodilator tends to support an asthma diagnosis, since asthma is a reversible disease. In case of doubt, another lung test can be given called a methacholine challenge. You inhale successively higher levels of methacholine looking for a 20% drop in lung function; if achieved this suggests you may have asthma. In not, it rules out asthma. Perhaps you need to see a pulmonologist [chest doctor]. More info at your local Lung Association. For Canada see: http://www.lung.ca/asthma/ Lung Assoc [Canada] http://www.on.lung.ca/ Ontario http://www.on.lung.ca/community/southwestern/essex.htm Windsor-Essex                      Brian Stocks, Executive Director                      275 Oak Avenue                      Windsor, ON N9A 5E5                      (519) 256-3433 Fax (519) 256-8179 Ellis – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thank you all for reading this long post. Perhaps any MDs that monitor this list could chime in with their knowledge, thoughts, and experiences. As well of course,  as all others on the list. Blessed Easter to All, John Theaker Windsor, Ontario, Canada

Response:

Hello: We have a problem in this area, N.California, possible caused be the manufacture Schering. Is there any shortages in other parts of the U.S.? Take Care. B.

Response:

Pleurisy question?

Question:

wow,  you sound just like me.  i too have had pleuisy for long stretches. i’ve been taking prednisone and plaquenil for about a year and a half now. it has helped the pleurisy but it comes back every once in a while.  one thing that really makes my lungs much worse is any kind of Nsaid.  I think I have tried them all,  including the new celebrex and vioxx.  Everything makes me have an asthma attack / or lung infection,  and the horribly painful pleusiry.  my lungs are finally doing a little better,  but they are not the same.  and because of my reaction to the nsaids the only thing i can take for pain is vicodin.  i also have lupus related joint swelling and it would be nice if i could take an nsaid once in a while. as for plaquenil i haven’t noticed any bad side effects,  and it does feel like it’s helping a little. good luck to you. Lori "PamlaKS" <paml…@aol.com> wrote in message

news:20001105203855.03218.00001493@ng-md1.aol.com… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I have had pleurisy for over six months now and it is driving me nuts!  I was > first dignosed with asthma.  The pulmonary specialist said I have mild asthma > and scar tissue in the lungs.  He said at one point I had pneumonia and it is > the reason for the scaring.  I don’t remember having pneumonia, but I guess I > could have had it at some point in my life. > I was put on a short round of prednisone to get pulmonary function tests done. > After going off the prednisone, I realized the pain and shortness breath was > acutally pleurisy.  My doctor put me on plaquenil when I developed a severe > rash from the sun.  Both the prednisone and the plaquenil really help with the > lupus like symptoms. I have only recently started taking plaquenil and I am > waiting to see what the long term treatment of the drug will be. Everytime I > go off my medications, the pleurisy returns.  My pulmonary doc says its a > rheumatology (sp?) problem and the rheumatologist says its a pulmonary problem. > My question is, does anyone else here have pleurisy for extended periods of > time? What are some complications of having pleurisy for such a long time? > Every thing I have read indicates that pleurisy generally last for a short > period of time. I don’t know if this is accurate or not.  I also seem to have > problems with the esophogus as well.  Do any of these symptoms sound familiar > to anyone? > Pamela

Response:

Bruce wote: >For heaven’s sake… get your self some other opinions.  Keep trying >until you get a physician who will take you seriously.  What did your >blood tests show?

I have only seen this rheumatologist once and  we are in the process of getting all the blood tests back. I have had several blood tests in the past three years and they have all come back negative.  I did have a high dRVVT that was 52, but that is about it.  My ANA test results from April this year were <1:40.  The lab results didn’t give an exact number.  I tried to see a "good" rheumatologist, but according to the rheumatologist’s office staff, I had to see the doctors PA first.  Once I saw her, then I could come back in a month to see the doctor.    I went to a second rheumatologist that same day and explained my problems to his office staff.  The doctor saw me right then. I am really hoping this rheumatologist works out.  I moved in from another state last year and it has been difficult finding doctors I feel comfortable with.   Pamela

Response:

For heaven’s sake… get your self some other opinions.  Keep trying until you get a physician who will take you seriously.  What did your blood tests show?  Have they considered Churg-Straus syndrome or Wegener’s granulomatosis?  Don’t mess around with physicians who won’t talk to each other and pass the buck! Get to a different rheumatologist.. and if that doesn’t work, try yet another one.  Don’t give up! — Bruce, Michigan

Response:

I have had pleurisy for over six months now and it is driving me nuts!  I was first dignosed with asthma.  The pulmonary specialist said I have mild asthma and scar tissue in the lungs.  He said at one point I had pneumonia and it is the reason for the scaring.  I don’t remember having pneumonia, but I guess I could have had it at some point in my life. I was put on a short round of prednisone to get pulmonary function tests done. After going off the prednisone, I realized the pain and shortness breath was acutally pleurisy.  My doctor put me on plaquenil when I developed a severe rash from the sun.  Both the prednisone and the plaquenil really help with the lupus like symptoms. I have only recently started taking plaquenil and I am waiting to see what the long term treatment of the drug will be.  Everytime I go off my medications, the pleurisy returns.  My pulmonary doc says its a rheumatology (sp?) problem and the rheumatologist says its a pulmonary problem. My question is, does anyone else here have pleurisy for extended periods of time? What are some complications of having pleurisy for such a long time? Every thing I have read indicates that pleurisy generally last for a short period of time. I don’t know if this is accurate or not.  I also seem to have problems with the esophogus as well.  Do any of these symptoms sound familiar to anyone?   Pamela

Response:

Attack

Question:

Hi.  My 12 yr old DS is in the middle of a decent asthma attack.  Before leaving for school yesterday AM, heard him wheeze and ordered him to use rescue inhaler, which he did.  Around lunch I called school to check up on him.  Basically, I went and got him…he was dizzy, couldn’t concentrate, felt terrible, wheezing, and didn’t have his inhaler with him…was still sitting on bathroom counter.  His PFM was only 250…usually blows about 350.  As comparison, my FIL (on oxygen constantly) blows 180-200.  Called Allergist….put him on Prednison 40mgs immediately, around 10-11pm that night and in the AM.  Was to call with how he felt in AM.  I had him use the nebulizer immediately and consistently. This AM only blew a 250.  Put him on Nebulizer (Atrovent) and Prednisone. This gets him up to 290-300.  Still dizzy and weak.  Kept him home today. Called Allergist…wants him on 40mg Prednisone twice daily and Friday AM…then call with how it’s going.  I’m sending him to school tomorrow with his rescue inhaler securely in his pocket.  Have done the lecture to call me if things aren’t working properly for his breathing.  Just now, about the time for another neb treatment, he blew a 250 and 270. In the meantime, I’ve made an appt with a Pediatric Pulmonologist for next Tuesday.  The only other appt is in March!  Allergist doesn’t think dizziness is connected with the asthma, ie blood/oxygen levels, etc.  I DO! He’s gotten to where even if there’s a mild drop, he gets slightly dizzy.  A good attack and he’s hanging onto things to walk around. This kid has been on wheezing meds since 6 mos old (Alupent syrup) and I should have done this before now.  Never knew till I got on internet about such things as ped pulmonologist, etc….no FP or Allergist ever mentioned it.  Thanks for listening to my vent. — Sally Avery

Response:

Dumb allergist. Anyone knows that if your O2 level drops that you will get dizzy. It can also make you absent minded and forgetful. Sounds to me like he’s around an allergic something or he has my type of Asthma. Some people have a real tough time clearing up the lung inflammation and an attack can last for days. Is his asthma excersise induced ? Cold induced ? Allergic to perfumes or strong orders ? Could be that he has bronchitis on top of the asthma which prolongs an attack. I’m not a doctor but I’ve read everything that I could find on asthma and having had Staticus Asthma more than once you learn a lot. Here is my favorite " I need answers NOW" number. 1-800-222-lung

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi.  My 12 yr old DS is in the middle of a decent asthma attack.  Before leaving for school yesterday AM, heard him wheeze and ordered him to use rescue inhaler, which he did.  Around lunch I called school to check up on him.  Basically, I went and got him…he was dizzy, couldn’t concentrate, felt terrible, wheezing, and didn’t have his inhaler with him…was still sitting on bathroom counter.  His PFM was only 250…usually blows about 350.  As comparison, my FIL (on oxygen constantly) blows 180-200.  Called Allergist….put him on Prednison 40mgs immediately, around 10-11pm that night and in the AM.  Was to call with how he felt in AM.  I had him use the nebulizer immediately and consistently. This AM only blew a 250.  Put him on Nebulizer (Atrovent) and Prednisone. This gets him up to 290-300.  Still dizzy and weak.  Kept him home today. Called Allergist…wants him on 40mg Prednisone twice daily and Friday AM…then call with how it’s going.  I’m sending him to school tomorrow with his rescue inhaler securely in his pocket.  Have done the lecture to call me if things aren’t working properly for his breathing.  Just now, about the time for another neb treatment, he blew a 250 and 270. In the meantime, I’ve made an appt with a Pediatric Pulmonologist for next Tuesday.  The only other appt is in March!  Allergist doesn’t think dizziness is connected with the asthma, ie blood/oxygen levels, etc.  I DO! He’s gotten to where even if there’s a mild drop, he gets slightly dizzy. A good attack and he’s hanging onto things to walk around. This kid has been on wheezing meds since 6 mos old (Alupent syrup) and I should have done this before now.  Never knew till I got on internet about such things as ped pulmonologist, etc….no FP or Allergist ever mentioned it.  Thanks for listening to my vent. — Sally Avery

Response:

Just after posting this, DS told me he didn’t feel so great.  It was time for his nebulizer treatment, so gave it to him.  Fifteen minutes later, no improvement.  20-25 minutes later…no improvement.  Said had tightness and pain.  Up and out of there to the hospital.  We live out in the boonies and can be very difficult to find….in the dark and when there’s a good snow going as there was that night, let alone it takes an ambulance an average of 20-30 minutes to get to our area without bad weather.  I decided to take him to a hospital further away from us rather than the closer one and drove him. Needless to say, he almost didn’t make it.  There was NO AIR EXCHANGE occurring at all by the time we got there.  We were whisked back to treatment immediately.  Nurses told me he almost didn’t make it.  So now I will find our ambulance service and get ourselves on record for patient, illness involved, directions, what type of service is required, etc.  He spent 24 hours in Ped Intensive Care and then another 24 in Peds.  It is felt the only reason he turned around so quickly is that he had already had 24 hours of Prednisone before going into emergency.  This week he’s to see our Family Dr, Allergist (to arrange an emergency plan…since now one is really needed), a new Ped Pulmonologist (my decision)…and next week a Ped Gastro (again my decision) for continuous stomach problems.  His Prevacid was changed to Prilosec.  Amazingly, even though no air intake, his CO2 saturation was never low during the entire process.  He could hardly speak, but good CO2 levels.  ER Dr stated his resp was at 88…they went by what nurse put down at 60. No one knows what brought this on.  He had no fever or infection to tell, no big allergy problem as would usually be seen with this.  My biggest fear is that he kept wanting to go to sleep.  All I could think of he wouldn’t ever wake up so kept him awake and made him talk every few sentences of mine. Sally Avery

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi.  My 12 yr old DS is in the middle of a decent asthma attack.  Before leaving for school yesterday AM, heard him wheeze and ordered him to use rescue inhaler, which he did.  Around lunch I called school to check up on him.  Basically, I went and got him…he was dizzy, couldn’t concentrate, felt terrible, wheezing, and didn’t have his inhaler with him…was still sitting on bathroom counter.  His PFM was only 250…usually blows about 350.  As comparison, my FIL (on oxygen constantly) blows 180-200.  Called Allergist….put him on Prednison 40mgs immediately, around 10-11pm that night and in the AM.  Was to call with how he felt in AM.  I had him use the nebulizer immediately and consistently. This AM only blew a 250.  Put him on Nebulizer (Atrovent) and Prednisone. This gets him up to 290-300.  Still dizzy and weak.  Kept him home today. Called Allergist…wants him on 40mg Prednisone twice daily and Friday AM…then call with how it’s going.  I’m sending him to school tomorrow with his rescue inhaler securely in his pocket.  Have done the lecture to call me if things aren’t working properly for his breathing.  Just now, about the time for another neb treatment, he blew a 250 and 270. In the meantime, I’ve made an appt with a Pediatric Pulmonologist for next Tuesday.  The only other appt is in March!  Allergist doesn’t think dizziness is connected with the asthma, ie blood/oxygen levels, etc.  I DO! He’s gotten to where even if there’s a mild drop, he gets slightly dizzy. A good attack and he’s hanging onto things to walk around. This kid has been on wheezing meds since 6 mos old (Alupent syrup) and I should have done this before now.  Never knew till I got on internet about such things as ped pulmonologist, etc….no FP or Allergist ever mentioned it.  Thanks for listening to my vent. — Sally Avery

Response:

Sound like another person with Staticus Asthmaticus, besides me that is. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thanks for the reply.  Yes, I HAD Albuterol for the nebulizer.  Checked it this evening when time for his treatment….expired. Ouch. So calling Dr tomorrow for more.  No one has ever indicated to use them together and he’s been prescribed this for the past 3 years!!!! My doctor (an allergy/asthma specialist) says it’s perfectly safe to mix albuterol, Atrovent (and in my case, Intal) together in the cup and then use it for 10-15 minutes. If there’s still liquid in the cup after that time, throw it away because it’s not likely there will be much medicine left. Of course, I am an adult and we are talking about a 12 year old child (right?) so there might be a difference there (although I can’t see why). He’s already on Singulair, Kronofed Jr, Flonase, Serevent, Pulmicort.  Was on Prevacid, but now Prilosec. I’ve had bad, bad experiences with Serevent and Pulmicort (very severe muscle cramps). Singulair helps a good deal with shortness of breath for me. As for Kronofed, Prevacid and Prilosec — never heard of them. Perhaps the exposure this past weekend to a Monster Truck think in an arena was the trigger after all. Could very well be. A lot of times things that people without asthma take no notice of can be really bad for people with asthma. If the truck show was inside an arena, I’m sure there was all kinds of dust being stirred up and exhaust fumes, and even if there was ventilation it might not have been happening fast enough. Not the best environment for someone with as bad asthma as you describe : Since Sunday he was able to recover with an inhaler and Monday seemed okay…played at GameWorks with friends.  From Tuesday AM…up and down till the down slide went big. Usually if I have an asthma attack from a specific trigger I continue downward with little help from inhalers. There have been times, though, when I was exposed to something, recovered fairly quickly and then a succession of other trigger exposures made it worse and worse. It’s really hard to figure out just *what* is causing problems because there are so many factors or potential factors involved with asthma. I know from repeated bad experiences that, for me, smoke and certain types of exhaust fumes will get me everytime and after I’m exposed to those, exposure to triggers that usually aren’t a huge problem for me *will* be a huge problem. They used Terbutylene (sp?) instead of Albuterol in PICU. Shrug. Doesn’t sound familiar to me. BTW, DS stands for "Dear Son". Ah. :)

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thanks for the reply.  Yes, I HAD Albuterol for the nebulizer.  Checked it this evening when time for his treatment….expired. Ouch. So calling Dr tomorrow for more.  No one has ever indicated to use them together and he’s been prescribed this for the past 3 years!!!! My doctor (an allergy/asthma specialist) says it’s perfectly safe to mix albuterol, Atrovent (and in my case, Intal) together in the cup and then use it for 10-15 minutes. If there’s still liquid in the cup after that time, throw it away because it’s not likely there will be much medicine left. Of course, I am an adult and we are talking about a 12 year old child (right?) so there might be a difference there (although I can’t see why). He’s already on Singulair, Kronofed Jr, Flonase, Serevent, Pulmicort.  Was on Prevacid, but now Prilosec. I’ve had bad, bad experiences with Serevent and Pulmicort (very severe muscle cramps). Singulair helps a good deal with shortness of breath for me. As for Kronofed, Prevacid and Prilosec — never heard of them. Perhaps the exposure this past weekend to a Monster Truck think in an arena was the trigger after all.   Could very well be. A lot of times things that people without asthma take no notice of can be really bad for people with asthma. If the truck show was inside an arena, I’m sure there was all kinds of dust being stirred up and exhaust fumes, and even if there was ventilation it might not have been happening fast enough. Not the best environment for someone with as bad asthma as you describe : Since Sunday he was able to recover with an inhaler and Monday seemed okay…played at GameWorks with friends.  From Tuesday AM…up and down till the down slide went big. Usually if I have an asthma attack from a specific trigger I continue downward with little help from inhalers. There have been times, though, when I was exposed to something, recovered fairly quickly and then a succession of other trigger exposures made it worse and worse. It’s really hard to figure out just *what* is causing problems because there are so many factors or potential factors involved with asthma. I know from repeated bad experiences that, for me, smoke and certain types of exhaust fumes will get me everytime and after I’m exposed to those, exposure to triggers that usually aren’t a huge problem for me *will* be a huge problem. They used Terbutylene (sp?) instead of Albuterol in PICU.  

I believe it is Tributaline that you are talking about.  I have used it both for asthma and for premature labor.  It seems to work most of the time to prevent asthma attacks.  The only real concern that I have ever had with using it is the fact that it raises the heart rate quite a bit, sometimes way too high.  Therefore, you have to check the pulse before each dose.  It also works well for premature labor, but if you are using it for asthma, then you have to discontinue it when you are pregnant or you have problems going into labor. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Shrug. Doesn’t sound familiar to me. BTW, DS stands for "Dear Son". Ah. :)

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi.  My 12 yr old DS is in the middle of a decent asthma attack. Before leaving for school yesterday AM, heard him wheeze and ordered him to use rescue inhaler, which he did.  Around lunch I called school to check up on him.  Basically, I went and got him…he was dizzy, couldn’t concentrate, felt terrible, wheezing, and didn’t have his inhaler with him…was still sitting on bathroom counter.  His PFM was only 250…usually blows about 350.  As comparison, my FIL (on oxygen constantly) blows 180-200. Called Allergist….put him on Prednison 40mgs immediately, around 10-11pm that night and in the AM.  Was to call with how he felt in AM.  I had him use the nebulizer immediately and consistently. This AM only blew a 250.  Put him on Nebulizer (Atrovent) and Prednisone. This gets him up to 290-300.  Still dizzy and weak.  Kept him home today. Called Allergist…wants him on 40mg Prednisone twice daily and Friday AM…then call with how it’s going.  I’m sending him to school tomorrow with his rescue inhaler securely in his pocket.  Have done the lecture to call me if things aren’t working properly for his breathing.  Just now, about the time for another neb treatment, he blew a 250 and 270. In the meantime, I’ve made an appt with a Pediatric Pulmonologist for next Tuesday.  The only other appt is in March!  Allergist doesn’t think dizziness is connected with the asthma, ie blood/oxygen levels, etc. I DO! He’s gotten to where even if there’s a mild drop, he gets slightly dizzy.  A good attack and he’s hanging onto things to walk around. This kid has been on wheezing meds since 6 mos old (Alupent syrup) and I should have done this before now.  Never knew till I got on internet about such things as ped pulmonologist, etc….no FP or Allergist ever mentioned it.  Thanks for listening to my vent. — Sally Avery Sally —

Your son may find some benefit in the things that have worked for me. I’ve posted them at–     http://home.earthlink.net/~reble/ All the Best. reble Before you buy.

Response:

Perhaps the exposure this past weekend to a Monster Truck think in an arena was the trigger after all.  Since Sunday he was able to recover with an inhaler and Monday seemed okay…played at GameWorks with friends.  From Tuesday AM…up and down till the down slide went big.

Hmm…maybe the exposure to all the diesel fumes in the arena was the problem. He may have been weakened by it but was coming back until whatever happened at GameWorks (maybe physical exertion?) tipped the scales and put him over the edge into a decline. ..diane

Response:

Thanks for the reply.  Yes, I HAD Albuterol for the nebulizer.  Checked it this evening when time for his treatment….expired.  So calling Dr tomorrow for more.  No one has ever indicated to use them together and he’s been prescribed this for the past 3 years!!!!

I guess you now know not to use Atrovent in the nebulizer as the sole rescue drug [since it takes 60 min to take effect and is only a weak bronchodilator]; but to use albuterol as the rescue drug. Terbutaline can be used in place of albuterol. In some patients, Atrovent increases wheezing and makes the asthma worse. [see 'The Asthma Sourcebook'] Also the symptoms of dizziness and sleepiness previously mentioned could be due to the side effects of the high dose nebulzied Atrovent. see rxlist.com  Atrovent is related to the belladonna/atropine drugs. Are you sure Atrovent is helping? Current US guidelines don’t recommend it for asthma. [NHLBI EPR2] Ellis  He’s already on Singulair, Kronofed Jr, Flonase, Serevent, Pulmicort.  Was on Prevacid, but now Prilosec.

– Free audio & video emails, greeting cards and forums Talkway – http://www.talkway.com – Talk more ways (sm)

Response:

the case for me and I had to find out the hard way. I currently use albuterol, Atrovent and Intal in the inhaler 3-4 times per day and take

That should be in the nebulizer not in the inhaler, sorry.

Response:

Just after posting this, DS told me he didn’t feel so great.  It was time for his nebulizer treatment, so gave it to him.  Fifteen minutes later, no improvement.  20-25 minutes later…no improvement.

Do you mean you were giving him Atrovent in the nebulizer as you mentioned in your first post? the appropriate drug should be albuterol, which is a fast acting beta2 agonist bronchodilator; Atrovent is not much used for asthma and has a very slow onset of action. There is a new version of albuterol that is more effective called Xopenex.  Said had tightness and – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – pain.  Up and out of there to the hospital.  We live out in the boonies and can be very difficult to find….in the dark and when there’s a good snow going as there was that night, let alone it takes an ambulance an average of 20-30 minutes to get to our area without bad weather.  I decided to take him to a hospital further away from us rather than the closer one and drove him. Needless to say, he almost didn’t make it.  There was NO AIR EXCHANGE occurring at all by the time we got there.  We were whisked back to treatment immediately.  Nurses told me he almost didn’t make it.  So now I will find our ambulance service and get ourselves on record for patient, illness involved, directions, what type of service is required, etc.  He spent 24 hours in Ped Intensive Care and then another 24 in Peds.  It is felt the only reason he turned around so quickly is that he had already had 24 hours of Prednisone before going into emergency.  This week he’s to see our Family Dr, Allergist (to arrange an emergency plan…since now one is really needed), a new Ped Pulmonologist (my decision)…and next week a Ped Gastro (again my decision) for continuous stomach problems.  His Prevacid was changed to Prilosec.  Amazingly, even though no air intake, his CO2 saturation was never low during the entire process.  He could hardly speak, but good CO2 levels.  ER Dr stated his resp was at 88…they went by what nurse put down at 60. No one knows what brought this on.  He had no fever or infection to tell, no big allergy problem as would usually be seen with this.  My biggest fear is that he kept wanting to go to sleep.  All I could think of he wouldn’t ever wake up so kept him awake and made him talk every few sentences of mine. Sally Avery

Re: CO2, you mean O2 (oxygen) saturation, not CO2 (carbon dioxide) Re: breathing rate–greater than 30 breaths/sec is Severe attack. Re: sleepiness–this can be a sign that respiratory arrest is imminent [Severe attack or less is agitated state] Re: GE reflux–be sure to elevate head of bed 6" with wood blocks and no meals near bedtime More info in the book "The Asthma Sourcebook", Francis Adams, MD Good luck, Ellis – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi.  My 12 yr old DS is in the middle of a decent asthma attack.  Before leaving for school yesterday AM, heard him wheeze and ordered him to use rescue inhaler, which he did.  Around lunch I called school to check up on him.  Basically, I went and got him…he was dizzy, couldn’t concentrate, felt terrible, wheezing, and didn’t have his inhaler with him…was still sitting on bathroom counter.  His PFM was only 250…usually blows about 350.  As comparison, my FIL (on oxygen constantly) blows 180-200.  Called Allergist….put him on Prednison 40mgs immediately, around 10-11pm that night and in the AM.  Was to call with how he felt in AM.  I had him use the nebulizer immediately and consistently. This AM only blew a 250.  Put him on Nebulizer (Atrovent) and Prednisone. This gets him up to 290-300.

The drug normally used in nebulizers for exacerbations is albuterol; Atrovent is not much used for asthma, mostly for COPD, and has a very slow onset of action.  Still dizzy and weak.  Kept him home today. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Called Allergist…wants him on 40mg Prednisone twice daily and Friday AM…then call with how it’s going.  I’m sending him to school tomorrow with his rescue inhaler securely in his pocket.  Have done the lecture to call me if things aren’t working properly for his breathing.  Just now, about the time for another neb treatment, he blew a 250 and 270. In the meantime, I’ve made an appt with a Pediatric Pulmonologist for next Tuesday.  The only other appt is in March!  Allergist doesn’t think dizziness is connected with the asthma, ie blood/oxygen levels, etc.  I DO! He’s gotten to where even if there’s a mild drop, he gets slightly dizzy. A good attack and he’s hanging onto things to walk around. This kid has been on wheezing meds since 6 mos old (Alupent syrup) and I should have done this before now.  Never knew till I got on internet about such things as ped pulmonologist, etc….no FP or Allergist ever mentioned it.  Thanks for listening to my vent. — Sally Avery

– Free audio & video emails, greeting cards and forums Talkway – http://www.talkway.com – Talk more ways (sm)

Response:

Thanks for the reply.  Yes, I HAD Albuterol for the nebulizer.  Checked it this evening when time for his treatment….expired.  So calling Dr tomorrow

Good choice in terms of not using the albuterol.  Expired albuterol, once it has been expired for a while, can actually become a bronchoconstrictor…  bad news in an asthma attack… They used Terbutylene (sp?) instead of Albuterol in PICU.  BTW, DS stands

Terbutaline.  Another quick-acting bronchodilator.  In Canada and some other countries one ccan get it in turbuhaler form, called Bricanyl. I find that, for me, terbutaline has less severe side effects than albuterol does. SW.

Response:

Thanks for the reply.  Yes, I HAD Albuterol for the nebulizer.  Checked it this evening when time for his treatment….expired.

Ouch. So calling Dr tomorrow for more.  No one has ever indicated to use them together and he’s been prescribed this for the past 3 years!!!!

My doctor (an allergy/asthma specialist) says it’s perfectly safe to mix albuterol, Atrovent (and in my case, Intal) together in the cup and then use it for 10-15 minutes. If there’s still liquid in the cup after that time, throw it away because it’s not likely there will be much medicine left. Of course, I am an adult and we are talking about a 12 year old child (right?) so there might be a difference there (although I can’t see why). He’s already on Singulair, Kronofed Jr, Flonase, Serevent, Pulmicort.  Was on Prevacid, but now Prilosec.

I’ve had bad, bad experiences with Serevent and Pulmicort (very severe muscle cramps). Singulair helps a good deal with shortness of breath for me. As for Kronofed, Prevacid and Prilosec — never heard of them. Perhaps the exposure this past weekend to a Monster Truck think in an arena was the trigger after all.  

Could very well be. A lot of times things that people without asthma take no notice of can be really bad for people with asthma. If the truck show was inside an arena, I’m sure there was all kinds of dust being stirred up and exhaust fumes, and even if there was ventilation it might not have been happening fast enough. Not the best environment for someone with as bad asthma as you describe : Since Sunday he was able to recover with an inhaler and Monday seemed okay…played at GameWorks with friends.  From Tuesday AM…up and down till the down slide went big.

Usually if I have an asthma attack from a specific trigger I continue downward with little help from inhalers. There have been times, though, when I was exposed to something, recovered fairly quickly and then a succession of other trigger exposures made it worse and worse. It’s really hard to figure out just *what* is causing problems because there are so many factors or potential factors involved with asthma. I know from repeated bad experiences that, for me, smoke and certain types of exhaust fumes will get me everytime and after I’m exposed to those, exposure to triggers that usually aren’t a huge problem for me *will* be a huge problem. They used Terbutylene (sp?) instead of Albuterol in PICU.  

Shrug. Doesn’t sound familiar to me. BTW, DS stands for "Dear Son".

Ah. :)

Response:

My thoughts are with you at this time. Joan

Response:

Thanks for the reply.  Yes, I HAD Albuterol for the nebulizer.  Checked it this evening when time for his treatment….expired.  So calling Dr tomorrow for more.  No one has ever indicated to use them together and he’s been prescribed this for the past 3 years!!!!  He’s already on Singulair, Kronofed Jr, Flonase, Serevent, Pulmicort.  Was on Prevacid, but now Prilosec. Perhaps the exposure this past weekend to a Monster Truck think in an arena was the trigger after all.  Since Sunday he was able to recover with an inhaler and Monday seemed okay…played at GameWorks with friends.  From Tuesday AM…up and down till the down slide went big. They used Terbutylene (sp?) instead of Albuterol in PICU.  BTW, DS stands for "Dear Son". Sally – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Sally, I read your first post and this one. And I’ll tell you something from my experience with inhalers, nebulizers and steroids. When I’m exposed to certain triggers (for me it seems to be smoke of any kind and deisel fuel exhaust), there is very little any medicine will do

Response:

Sally, I read your first post and this one. And I’ll tell you something from my experience with inhalers, nebulizers and steroids. When I’m exposed to certain triggers (for me it seems to be smoke of any kind and deisel fuel exhaust), there is very little any medicine will do for me. Rescue inhalers are completely useless. Steroids either don’t work or give me such terrible side effects there’s no telling whether they work. I’m still recovering from a serious and long lasting (more than six months) attack during which hardly anything would touch this asthma. I’m only alive because I used albuterol and Atrovent every four hours in my nebulizer and Singulair once/day and Theophyline at night. I noticed in your other post that you are giving him (I’m unsure what "DS" stands for) Atrovent in the nebulizer. Does he have albuterol solution available for it as well? My doctor explained to me and the PDR confirmed it, that Atrovent is *not* a rescue medicine because postitive results don’t happen for something like 45 minutes. I know from personal experience that albuterol "rescue" inhalers are completely useless when under the type of attack you describe. The nebulized albuterol seems to be much more effective in that case. You should also know that some people with asthma don’t respond or don’t respond well enough to steroids (inhaled and/or pills). That seems to be the case for me and I had to find out the hard way. I currently use albuterol, Atrovent and Intal in the inhaler 3-4 times per day and take Sigulair and an anti-histimine (Zyrtec) at night. And some doctors who claim to be pulmonary specialists really aren’t. I went to one guy who claimed such back in the summer and he told me that everyone with ashtma should respond to steroids of some kind (despite my telling him of spending years trying this steroid or that steroid with no positive effects), he went on to tell me that I shouldn’t get tested for allergies and that he didn’t recommend allergy shots (despite my telling him that allergy injections had imporved the asthma considerably in the past). Consequently, I don’t always believe what every doctor tells me. I usually don’t feel dizzy when under an attack, but I *do* get so sleepy sometimes that I wouldn’t be able to walk straight. I can easily see how that feeling could be related as dizziness. Do you think that might be the case? I think you are right to think that it has something to do with oxygen levels. Anyway, if you don’t have albuterol solution available for him, I think you ought to ask your doctor about it right away. It combined with Atrovent were what kept me alive at all for many weeks.

Response:

Hi All, I wonder if anyone can shed some lite on the following as this happened to me and i’m very confussed: During day had a large meal late afternoon (normal dose), evening almost half white wine, and a mousse type cake thing (i know i know) (no insulin). Had normal nitetime longlasting dose as always got into bed. This is where it goes fuzzy…i was chatting with gf in bed when i started to have a fit, i had no notices of sugar dropping, etc, she fed me some sugar…nothing…called paramedics, they thought i was drunk, to cut it short i came to in hospital 3 hours later with levels of 5 mmol on drip. Anytime my sugar has started to drop i have felt it drop, and eaten something sugary, as I did not have my evening meal i didnt take my 3rd jab, i cant see why my sugar fell….HELP…anyone got any ideas, or experienced anything similar??? Mazza Type 1 1989

Response:

You have my sympathy but as a type 2 I cannot offer advice. Hopefully a type 1 will answer soon. Hugs Carol

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi All, I wonder if anyone can shed some lite on the following as this happened to me and i’m very confussed: During day had a large meal late afternoon (normal dose), evening almost half white wine, and a mousse type cake thing (i know i know) (no insulin). Had normal nitetime longlasting dose as always got into bed. This is where it goes fuzzy…i was chatting with gf in bed when i started to have a fit, i had no notices of sugar dropping, etc, she fed me some sugar…nothing…called paramedics, they thought i was drunk, to cut it short i came to in hospital 3 hours later with levels of 5 mmol on drip. Anytime my sugar has started to drop i have felt it drop, and eaten something sugary, as I did not have my evening meal i didnt take my 3rd jab, i cant see why my sugar fell….HELP…anyone got any ideas, or experienced anything similar??? Mazza Type 1 1989

  I really suspect the alcohol.  We insulin shooters rely on our  livers to dump glucose when we shoot a tad too much insulin.   However, alcohol shuts the glucose-dump down and we can go hypo really fast.  Then, if your bG is low, not much alcohol can  make you really drunk, really fast.   I have watched another T1 with amazement when two drinks just  about had her dancing on the table.   My doc was sort of plain and direct on the matter.  He just  flat out said no alcohol when I was diagnosed.  (Some of the other docs are less conservative) Regards  Old Al (T1 since ‘94, 40 units H + U via 4 injections daily)   A retired engineer who shares his experiences.

Response:

Well, the YMMV thing probably comes into play here.  You might want to post some insulin types and figures as the wonder boys who really understand this stuff tend to want numbers!! But just a guess… could’ve been that your large meal was not such a high carb meal as usual, and with the alcohol… some of these sweet foods are really not so sweet.  Did you not test yourself after your meal or later in the day – surprising if you didn’t test at least once.  I don’t know what insulin you use, but I find that the NPH element of my insulin can do things like this. I shoot 60u about an hour or so before a big meal, have some booze with it and find that the 18u of "R" hasn’t really done too much after a couple of hours, but later on say four hours later the 42u of NPH is starting to knock my levels right down and I have to be careful not to hypo. Does this just reinforce the validity of the "must test regularly " ethos of the group??? Martin. — T2 since 1998, (Insulin User Since 2000). See the web site: http://www.asduk.org.uk

: Hi All, : : I wonder if anyone can shed some lite on the following as this happened to : me and i’m very confussed: : : During day had a large meal late afternoon (normal dose), evening almost : half white wine, and a mousse type cake thing (i know i know) (no insulin). : Had : normal nitetime longlasting dose as always got into bed. : : This is where it goes fuzzy…i was chatting with gf in bed when i started : to have a fit, i had no notices of sugar dropping, etc, she fed me some : sugar…nothing…called paramedics, they thought i was drunk, to cut it : short i came to in hospital 3 hours later with levels of 5 mmol on drip. : : Anytime my sugar has started to drop i have felt it drop, and eaten : something sugary, as I did not have my evening meal i didnt take my 3rd jab, : i cant see why my sugar fell….HELP…anyone got any ideas, or experienced : anything similar??? : : Mazza : Type 1 1989 : : : :

Response:

Hi All, I wonder if anyone can shed some lite on the following as this happened to me and i’m very confussed: During day had a large meal late afternoon (normal dose), evening almost half white wine, and a mousse type cake thing (i know i know) (no insulin). Had normal nitetime longlasting dose as always got into bed.

Any chance you might have shot your bolus (fast) insulin by accident, rather than the long??? (It has been known to happen — trust me  Q:-) — Kelly T2, daily regime: 28u NPH at bedtime, varying H with meals, Avandia 4mg 2x, Altace 2.5mg, Wellbutrin 150mg 2x, now added 10mg Liptor  :-( ICQ #85063563 Sign on a newly painted bench: Wet paint. Watch it or wear it To reply, send to mynick (at) quickclic (dot) com

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi All, I wonder if anyone can shed some lite on the following as this happened to me and i’m very confussed: During day had a large meal late afternoon (normal dose), evening almost half white wine, and a mousse type cake thing (i know i know) (no insulin). Had normal nitetime longlasting dose as always got into bed.

I’m with Old Al on this in suspecting it was the alcohol. The liver is very much involved in helping to regulate blood sugar levels. If they fall too low the liver is able to release enough glucose to keep things going (hopefully)!  But the liver also has the task of de-toxifying any poisons we may consume. Alcohol is a poison to the body, even if we like the effect. The liver will give priority to this task before it handles the low bg. There were figures around about how long it takes the liver and subsequently the kidneys to get rid of the alcohol, but I can’t remember them. It was part of a campaign to prevent people from driving when intoxicated. I know it was at least an hour for 1 regular glass of white wine.  But  for that length of time, your bg may be dropping, and dropping and whammo, a hypo. Unfortunately, a hypo can resemble the affects of being intoxicated, and if you have the smell of alcohol on your breath,others may not realise what is going on. So do take care. Annette.

Response:

Severe Attacks of Nausea

Question:

Hi all,      Since 1993, I was prescribed methadone to control severe pain from chronic facial pain.  (similar to trigeminal neuralgia but pain doesn’t come in attacks – just doesn’t let up)  Currently my methadone dosage is 50 mg x 2, in addition, I was born & diagnosed with asthma at an early age & have used pretty much the same treatment regiment for many years – Theo-Dur 450 mg x2, Accolate 20 mg x 2, Pepcid 20 mg x 1, vanceril inhaler & various bouts of 10 day courses of night only & albuterol treatments by nebulizer as needed.  So far I have endured 7 severe attacks of "nausea" requiring hospitalization  - the symptoms are always the same – I have an asthma attack at 1am or 2 am – I use an albuterol nebulizer treatment in addition to increasing the oxygen to 5 liters – usually I take 5 mg of valium to reduce the "nervousness created by the albuterol" & return to bed.  By 4 or 5 am I am awake, 1st I am freezing – teeth chattering – unable to get warm, muscle spasms – I’m extremely thirsty & usually consume ginger ale or sprite,  I’m unable to stop cramping in my legs or arms, followed by  waves of nausea, Once I begin to throw up, I am unable to stop  - I become very weak – unable to even dress for the trip to the hospital.  After the first few attacks, my doc had prescribed compazine suppositories & valium, these do not ‘work.  I had two attacks within 17 days & I’m becoming quite paranoid ,  My doc has now prescribed phenergren 25 mg suppositories & atarax 25 mg – one to stop the nausea & one to knock me out ( i suppose).  Has anyone expierienced anything even remotely similar?  Could it be the methadone or one of the asthma drugs? Thanks for any input. Deborah Deborah

Response:

Could it be the methadone or one of the asthma drugs?

Deborah – both the methadone and the asthma meds can cause nausea. In your case it is probably the combination of both meds. Also, asthma meds are notorious for causing the jitters. Your doc seems to be trying to find a combination of meds that will alleviate the problem. If what he has given you doesn’t work, he will, no doubt, keep experimenting. Has he checked your electrolytes? Vomiting can cause an electrolyte imbalance which may be causing the cramping in your arms and legs. Good luck and I hope that you will soon find the right combination of medications so that these side effects will become a thing of the past. Terri "Growing old is inevitable, growing up is optional"

Response:

Terri,      Thanks for your response – my doctor suggested that I use the phenergan suppositories as soon as the nebulizer treatment begins to abate my asthma attack. At least, its worth a try – I have been trying to control my asthma with a short course of prednisone (with its own set of side effects rather than use the hospitalization & all appeared to be within normal limits.        Thanks for your input. Deborah Deborah

Response:

Hi- I get really severe nausea too- I use Tigan pills- they work great except they take a long time before they work…about 45 minutes, which, when you’re nauseous is FOREVER. Femme

Response:

At the moment I use metoclopramide which work ok for me – I have to take them 2 or 3 times a day though. Emma

Response:

(FemNik6900) writes: et really severe nausea too- I use Tigan pills- they work great except they take a long time before they work..

Unfortunately, I am unable to keep anything down once the nausea hits – I’ve tried valium, even compazine tablets before I was switched to   suppositories.  (not the most pleasant experience but one that works) Take care. Deborah

Response:

Is this possible?

Question:

Yes you may certainly have a strained muscle or a cracked rib.  Quite by coincidence I just took my mom to the doctors today.  She has been having a really bad time as of late with her asthma.  She is also on many of the meds you are taking including prednisone which she has been on regularly for many years now.  I don’t know if your doctor has made you aware that the regular use of steriods can cause osteoperosis.  With osteo the chances for hairline fractures and cracked or broken bones are quite high.  One of the reasons for her visit today was pain in her chest and back.  The doctor told her she had a fractured rib.  I think it would be a good idea to make a visit to your Doctor to find out for sure what the cause of your pain is.  It could be a break or fracture or it could just be a strain but it’s always best to find out for sure.

Response:

Is it possible to crack a rib during an asthma attack as a result of coughing so much and straining to breathe?

Yes it is possible because i did exactly that a few years back.

Response:

I get the same thing but the Dr called it intercostal neuralgia, something about the coughing irritates the nerves in the lungs so bad that the slightest move or pressure can cause excruciating pain. All he did was give me pain killers and said it would take a few months to go away. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I don’t seem to have the original message to reply to, so I am piggybacking on LST Bird’s reply. Yes you may certainly have a strained muscle or a cracked rib. <snipped for brevity only. Hope your mother is feeling better tonight Broken ribs are no fun at all. ..  I think it would be a good idea to make a visit to your Doctor to find out for sure what the cause of your pain is.  It could be a break or fracture or it could just be a strain but it’s always best to find out for sure. In extreme exacerbations that involve a lot of coughing (and especially if prednisone is also involved), I have sometimes had excruciating cramps in the rib muscles. (intercostals?) Out of nowhere, one set or another of these muscles will seize up in a severe spasm that almost takes my breath away. Nothing helps, not even stretching. After a couple of minutes (seems like hours) that muscle will gradually relax and then when it’s least expected another one will act up. AARGH! Emily

Response:

Yes it is not only possible but common. — Good Luck, CBI, M.D.

Response:

I don’t seem to have the original message to reply to, so I am piggybacking on LST Bird’s reply. Yes you may certainly have a strained muscle or a cracked rib.  

<snipped for brevity only. Hope your mother is feeling better tonight Broken ribs are no fun at all. ..  I think it would be a good idea to make a visit to your Doctor to find out for sure what the cause of your pain is.  It could be a break or fracture or it could just be a strain but it’s always best to find out for sure.

In extreme exacerbations that involve a lot of coughing (and especially if prednisone is also involved), I have sometimes had excruciating cramps in the rib muscles. (intercostals?) Out of nowhere, one set or another of these muscles will seize up in a severe spasm that almost takes my breath away. Nothing helps, not even stretching. After a couple of minutes (seems like hours) that muscle will gradually relax and then when it’s least expected another one will act up. AARGH! Emily

Response:

after a neb treatment.  I was also having excruciating pain in my side, but ignored it because I couldn’t breathe.  It still hurts quite a bit. I can’t laugh, cough, turn, breathe, etc without horrible pain.  Is it possible to crack a rib during an asthma attack as a result of coughing so much and straining to breathe?  TIA!

Yup!  It has happened to me. Have your doctor check it out (but expect him to give you painkillers and advice to take it easy).  Apparently doctors don’t worry too much about cracked ribs because they get better on thier own and the patient gets lots of feedback (pain) when they overdo things.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a question that may sound a bit far-fetched but I’m going to ask anyways!  I’ve had asthma for about 12 years.  I’ve been steroid (prednisone) dependant for the past 4 years (in addition to inhaled steroids…Flovent….Singulair, Serevent, Ventolin and nebulized albuterol…oh, and Zantac for acid reflux).  My question….I was in the ER this past Sunday because I had a bad attack.  I had been coughing all day but was hoping that the neb treatments would help and I could wait until Monday morning to see the allergist.  I decided to go in after I watched my peak flow go down by 100 l/m in about 20 minutes after a neb treatment.  I was also having excruciating pain in my side, but ignored it because I couldn’t breathe.  It still hurts quite a bit. I can’t laugh, cough, turn, breathe, etc without horrible pain.  Is it possible to crack a rib during an asthma attack as a result of coughing so much and straining to breathe?  TIA! Missie Yeah, coughing can break a rib. The only treatment is pain killers. They gave me a bunch of Motrin (600 mg x3) when I fell off a ladder and cracked ribs. Turns out this could be dangerous since ibuprofen can cause asthma in some asthmatics. Initially I was given Tylenol with codeine. I learned how to hold my chest when I coughed, so it wouldn’t blow the cracked ribs apart. You could have your ribs x-rayed to verify it; I recommend it. They used to tape broken ribs–its not usually done now since it can cause the ribs to heal in a compressed position.

And it can be incredibly painful removing it for a chap with a hairy chest! <snip Surfer! URL: http://www.nevis-vieww.demon.co.uk Hopeful anti-spam: alter double ‘w’ to single ‘w’ to view site & send Email.

Response:

Hi everyone, ..snipped……. Is it possible to crack a rib during an asthma attack as a result of coughing so much and straining to breathe?  TIA!

…snipped… Missie

Hi Missie, You may have just strained your muscles and made them sore from the coughing.  Sore chest muscles can be very painful.  However, anything is possible so you should have it checked by your physician.       Angela

Response:

 I decided to go in – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – after I watched my peak flow go down by 100 l/m in about 20 minutes after a neb treatment.  I was also having excruciating pain in my side, but ignored it because I couldn’t breathe.  It still hurts quite a bit. I can’t laugh, cough, turn, breathe, etc without horrible pain.  Is it possible to crack a rib during an asthma attack as a result of coughing so much and straining to breathe?  TIA! Missie Yeah, coughing can break a rib. The only treatment is pain killers. They gave me a bunch of Motrin (600 mg x3) when I fell off a ladder and cracked ribs. Turns out this could be dangerous since ibuprofen can cause asthma in some asthmatics. Initially I was given Tylenol with codeine. I learned how to hold my chest when I coughed, so it wouldn’t blow the cracked ribs apart. You could have your ribs x-rayed to verify it; I recommend it. They used to tape broken ribs–its not usually done now since it can cause the ribs to heal in a compressed position. But in some cases you can wear an elastic chest band, check with your doctor. Have you had a bone density test; oral steroids can cause osteoporosis; and breaking bones can be the first indication you have it.

I forgot to mention, a cracked rib can cause lung and breathing problems. When I fell off the ladder cracking 3 ribs, I ended up on ground with severe breathing problems. Fortunately had my Ventolin in my pocket and was able to use. Eventually I was able to drive to Urgent Care and get an x-ray and scrip for pain pills. The x-ray showed one lung was smaller under the cracked ribs (partially collapsed???) So get an x-ray. Note, a broken rib could puncture the lung but not very likely. Ellis

Response:

I have a question that may sound a bit far-fetched but I’m going to ask anyways!  I’ve had asthma for about 12 years.  I’ve been steroid (prednisone) dependant for the past 4 years (in addition to inhaled steroids…Flovent….Singulair, Serevent, Ventolin and nebulized albuterol…oh, and Zantac for acid reflux).  My question….I was in the ER this past Sunday because I had a bad attack.  I had been coughing all day but was hoping that the neb treatments would help and I could wait until Monday morning to see the allergist.  I decided to go in after I watched my peak flow go down by 100 l/m in about 20 minutes after a neb treatment.  I was also having excruciating pain in my side, but ignored it because I couldn’t breathe.  It still hurts quite a bit. I can’t laugh, cough, turn, breathe, etc without horrible pain.  Is it possible to crack a rib during an asthma attack as a result of coughing so much and straining to breathe?  TIA! Missie

Yeah, coughing can break a rib. The only treatment is pain killers. They gave me a bunch of Motrin (600 mg x3) when I fell off a ladder and cracked ribs. Turns out this could be dangerous since ibuprofen can cause asthma in some asthmatics. Initially I was given Tylenol with codeine. I learned how to hold my chest when I coughed, so it wouldn’t blow the cracked ribs apart. You could have your ribs x-rayed to verify it; I recommend it. They used to tape broken ribs–its not usually done now since it can cause the ribs to heal in a compressed position. But in some cases you can wear an elastic chest band, check with your doctor. Have you had a bone density test; oral steroids can cause osteoporosis; and breaking bones can be the first indication you have it. One of the main treatments for GERD is to elevate the head of the bead 6 in. with wood blocks. Have you been evaluated for Sinusitis. Often for steroid dependent cases like yours, its worth getting a 2nd opinion from National Jewish Center in Denver, on your asthma treatment. 800-222-LUNG www.njc.org Ellis

Response:

Hi everyone, I have a question that may sound a bit far-fetched but I’m going to ask anyways!  I’ve had asthma for about 12 years.  I’ve been steroid (prednisone) dependant for the past 4 years (in addition to inhaled steroids…Flovent….Singulair, Serevent, Ventolin and nebulized albuterol…oh, and Zantac for acid reflux).  My question….I was in the ER this past Sunday because I had a bad attack.  I had been coughing all day but was hoping that the neb treatments would help and I could wait until Monday morning to see the allergist.  I decided to go in after I watched my peak flow go down by 100 l/m in about 20 minutes after a neb treatment.  I was also having excruciating pain in my side, but ignored it because I couldn’t breathe.  It still hurts quite a bit. I can’t laugh, cough, turn, breathe, etc without horrible pain.  Is it possible to crack a rib during an asthma attack as a result of coughing so much and straining to breathe?  TIA! Missie

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How do you play this: —5— —-3– If you can’t tell what it is, the two notes are supposed to be played together. I’ve tried touching the two strings between them and strumming, but you hear more of the noise from hitting the muted strings than the actual notes. Anyone have any hints on how this should be played? First of all, you don’t have to strum it.  You could play the lower note with the pick and simultaneously pick the upper note with your ring finger.  Remember, when using a pick you still have three free right-hand fingers to work with. Seeing as how this is John Frusciante, I’m willing to bet that it is fingerpicked.

Well then it wouldn’t even be an issue.   Nonetheless, it’s good to know how to do stuff like that with a pick too, because you can.  So, to answer the original question: Yes.  It’s possible with a pick or without. Josh

Response:

Yes! The singing bit is hard since it doesn’t really follow the tune! I’m glad I’m not the only one. I thought it was just me!

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – class song!! It is finger picked if you listen to the song (which i strongly recommend doing if you havent already) its a really hard rhythm (i find) to get goin with. And then singin on top of it….thats gonna take song practice!!!!! —5— —-3– If you can’t tell what it is, the two notes are supposed to be played together. I’ve tried touching the two strings between them and strumming, but you hear more of the noise from hitting the muted strings than the actual notes. Anyone have any hints on how this should be played? In case it’s important it’s from Scar Tissue by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Thanks in advance, Matt

Response:

class song!! It is finger picked if you listen to the song (which i strongly recommend doing if you havent already) its a really hard rhythm (i find) to get goin with. And then singin on top of it….thats gonna take song practice!!!!! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – —5— —-3– If you can’t tell what it is, the two notes are supposed to be played together. I’ve tried touching the two strings between them and strumming, but you hear more of the noise from hitting the muted strings than the actual notes. Anyone have any hints on how this should be played? In case it’s important it’s from Scar Tissue by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Thanks in advance, Matt

Response:

The only way to play this song is to fingerpick.  It’s easy fingerpicking though, play the bass with your thum amd the treble with your ring finger. Since the treble is mostly on the secong string (b) practice alternating you fingers between ring, middle, and index..  Also it’s easier to play at the 8th fret.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How do you play this: —5— —-3– If you can’t tell what it is, the two notes are supposed to be played together. I’ve tried touching the two strings between them and strumming, but you hear more of the noise from hitting the muted strings than the actual notes. Anyone have any hints on how this should be played? In case it’s important it’s from Scar Tissue by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Thanks in advance, Matt

Response:

How do you play this: —5— —-3– If you can’t tell what it is, the two notes are supposed to be played together. I’ve tried touching the two strings between them and strumming, but you hear more of the noise from hitting the muted strings than the actual notes. Anyone have any hints on how this should be played?

There’s a number of ways. First of all, you don’t have to "strum" it.  You could play the lower note with the pick and simultaneously pick the upper note with your ring finger. Or, if strumming is an absolute necessity, you could deaden the middle strings in a number of ways.  I think the best way would be to fret the lower note with your index finger and use that finger to hang down over the middle strings and deaden them.  Fret the upper note with your ring finger.  I tried it this way and it works.  If you can’t get it to work use the first method.  Remember, you still have three free fingers on your right hand, in addition to the pick. Josh Before you buy.

Response:

How do you play this: —5— —-3– If you can’t tell what it is, the two notes are supposed to be played together. I’ve tried touching the two strings between them and strumming, but you hear more of the noise from hitting the muted strings than the actual notes. Anyone have any hints on how this should be played?

Since you didn’t say which string is the low E and which is the high e, I’m assuming that the "3" is the low C on the A string, and the "5" is the E on the B string. There’s a number of ways. First of all, you don’t have to strum it.  You could play the lower note with the pick and simultaneously pick the upper note with your ring finger.  Remember, when using a pick you still have three free right-hand fingers to work with. Or, if strumming is an absolute necessity, you could deaden the middle strings in a number of ways.  I think the best way would be to fret the lower note with your index finger and use that finger to hang down over the middle strings and deaden them.  Fret the upper note with your ring finger.  I tried it this way and it works.  If you can’t get it to work use the first method. Josh Before you buy.

Response:

How do you play this: —5— —-3– If you can’t tell what it is, the two notes are supposed to be played together. I’ve tried touching the two strings between them and strumming, but you hear more of the noise from hitting the muted strings than the actual notes. Anyone have any hints on how this should be played? In case it’s important it’s from Scar Tissue by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Thanks in advance, Matt

Response:

Julie Bove scribbled these tid bits Are you off your rocker?  We’ve chased that idiot fake Dr. off this NG more times than I care to remember.  And now you invite him back?

On the nose… — http://www.livejournal.com/users/ronnie_in_dc (IPs recorded on messageboard posters) RR~ There is no place like ~/

Response:

Hey, Chung, add one more to your list of libellous posters. Hope her attorney is better than ole Ben-soon-to-be-out-$10,000. Are you off your rocker?  We’ve chased that idiot fake Dr. off this NG more times than I care to remember.  And now you invite him back?

"Live To Eat? Nyet. Eat To Live!" http://www.protraineronline.com/

Response:

Post this to sci.med.cardiology where Dr. Chung can give you an educated, medical answer. Better yet since USENET is not secure ask your own doctor.

Anything would be better than taking the advice of a bunch of fanatics like you and your Ruffie who have self-proclaimed themselves superior to the entire medical and research community when it comes to diabetes. "Live To Eat? Nyet. Eat To Live!" http://www.protraineronline.com/

Response:

///MU scribbled these tid bits Anything would be better than taking the advice of a bunch of fanatics like you and your Ruffie who have self-proclaimed themselves superior to the entire medical and research community when it comes to diabetes.

Please post proof that "I" have said anything of the kind. To quote you, "put up or shut up" — http://www.livejournal.com/users/ronnie_in_dc (IPs recorded on messageboard posters) RR~ There is no place like ~/

Response:

///MU scribbled these tid bits Anything would be better than taking the advice of a bunch of fanatics like you and your Ruffie who have self-proclaimed themselves superior to the entire medical and research community when it comes to diabetes. Please post proof that "I" have said anything of the kind. To quote you, "put up or shut up"

Post proof. Here, have at it world. www.google.com Google Ronnie Ruff and read all you want about how he believes he knows more about diabetes than the med and research community. Hey Ruff, you know more about diabetes than Dr. Chung, right? Want me to Google it where you said so? Have you seen this one? "Chung boy, you are one stupid mother fucker. But then, my daddy Your a fuckin idiot doing nothing more than lying and ripping off decent people. But then again, if all these people are really buying That one got your butt kicked off your ISP. "Live To Eat? Nyet. Eat To Live!" http://www.protraineronline.com/

Response:

Hey, Chung, add one more to your list of libellous posters. Hope her attorney is better than ole Ben-soon-to-be-out-$10,000.

*string of curse words muttered*  How many times must I kill file you? — Type 2 http://users.bestweb.net/~jbove/

Response:

*string of curse words muttered*  How many times must I kill file you?

You asking me like I care? "Live To Eat? Nyet. Eat To Live!" http://www.protraineronline.com/

Response:

///MU scribbled these tid bits That one got your butt kicked off your ISP.

Prove it. I have had the same ISP since I have been on line. BTW, W/O headers your proof means nothing. Anyone can write a jumble of words and call it proof. What will you be next week troll !!!MU or ###MU or ^^^MU ? No I don’t bother to KF you because you amuse me. — http://www.livejournal.com/users/ronnie_in_dc (IPs recorded on messageboard posters) RR~ There is no place like ~/

Response:

Julie Bove scribbled these tid bits *string of curse words muttered*  How many times must I kill file you?

You can’t Julie.. He like most trolls changes his name by only a special charactor or two so that he can be assured all see his words. It is his only way to get attention. If you respond to a post of his then ignore him it drives him crazy and he will then post ever increasingly vulgar and obnoxious things hoping to get you to reply again. — http://www.livejournal.com/users/ronnie_in_dc (IPs recorded on messageboard posters) RR~ There is no place like ~/

Response:

That one got your butt kicked off your ISP. Prove it. I have had the same ISP since I have been on line.

Sure have. The same one who kicked you off was happy to have you repay the upfront fee and take your money all over again. "Live To Eat? Nyet. Eat To Live!" http://www.protraineronline.com/

Response:

///MU scribbled these tid bits Prove it. I have had the same ISP since I have been on line. Sure have. The same one who kicked you off was happy to have you repay the upfront fee and take your money all over again.

Again, proove it.  I have had the account since I worked for them years ago. Started out as Erols Internet, now RCN-Starpower. BTW why not clue Julie in on your next name change in advance so her KF continues to work?   — http://www.livejournal.com/users/ronnie_in_dc (IPs recorded on messageboard posters) RR~ There is no place like ~/

Response:

Sure have. The same one who kicked you off was happy to have you repay the upfront fee and take your money all over again. Again, proove it.  I have had the account since I worked for them years ago. Started out as Erols Internet, now RCN-Starpower.

Yep, that’s them. The ones who shitcanned you when I complained about your Usenet trolling (posting as the real Dr. chung is what did you in…..naughty, naughty…and then the threatening emails you sent to me almost got your ass prosecuted. "Live To Eat? Nyet. Eat To Live!" http://www.protraineronline.com/

Response:

Hey, Chung, add one more to your list of libellous posters. Hope her attorney is better than ole Ben-soon-to-be-out-$10,000. Are you off your rocker?  We’ve chased that idiot fake Dr. off this NG more times than I care to remember.  And now you invite him back? "Live To Eat? Nyet. Eat To Live!" http://www.protraineronline.com/

Anybody know how to get rid of this lowlife SOB? Evertime I put him in my killfile he adds something new to his name so I still have to see his f*&cking posts.

Response:

///MU scribbled these tid bits Yep, that’s them. The ones who shitcanned you when I complained about your Usenet trolling (posting as the real Dr. chung is what did you in…..naughty, naughty…and then the threatening emails you sent to me almost got your ass prosecuted.

LOL!! You need to get into writing for a living. Fantasy books sell well now. Oh well I have given you the pleasure of a few responses and I don’t wish to get you to overly worked up so bye for now. Maybe we can talk again in a few months. Until then stay happy ///MU — http://www.livejournal.com/users/ronnie_in_dc (IPs recorded on messageboard posters) RR~ There is no place like ~/

Response:

Mrs. or Mr. Perry scribbled these tid bits Anybody know how to get rid of this lowlife SOB? Evertime I put him in my killfile he adds something new to his name so I still have to see his f*&cking posts.

Awww.. just ignore him if he gets too overboard. I should not have replied today. We all screw up sometimes :-)  I don’t KF him though, it is a waste of time.. At least the MU part of his name is constant, for now at least. — http://www.livejournal.com/users/ronnie_in_dc (IPs recorded on messageboard posters) RR~ There is no place like ~/

Response:

Anybody know how to get rid of this lowlife SOB?

Ruff? Shoot him in the head. Evertime I put him in my killfile he adds something new to his name so I still have to see his f*&cking posts.

Is it Mr. or Mrs. Perry that is too stupid to spell fucking? "Live To Eat? Nyet. Eat To Live!" http://www.protraineronline.com/

Response:

/MU scribbled these tid bits Is this possible? What is going on? Why would bypass surgery improve blood glucose levels? Post this to sci.med.cardiology where Dr. Chung can give you an educated, medical answer.

Better yet since USENET is not secure ask your own doctor. — http://www.livejournal.com/users/ronnie_in_dc (IPs recorded on messageboard posters) RR~ There is no place like ~/

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My friends husband was diagnosed with diabetes. He was put on insulin. About 3 months later he had a heart attack. Then another and then 3 weeks ago he had a 5X bypass surgery. After getting out of the hospital she said they took him off his insulin and his bgs have been normal ever since, well, except when he eats a really high carb meal. She said he can eat donuts and his bg still is under 120. Is this possible? What is going on? Why would bypass surgery improve blood glucose levels? Dana "Live as though there is no tomorrow,  Love as though you have never been hurt,  Dance as if no one is looking…"       Satchel Paige

I have no idea why, but if he starts eating donuts again he can look forward to hear problems again.  They are loaded with trans-fat.  May as well eat straight Criso, flour, and sugar.  It’s the same thing. Maybe the improved circulation lowered his insulin resistance.  Personally, I think he’s playing with fire eating like that.  He’s using up his chances of repair pretty quickly. c

Response:

Since this is a question about diabetes, why doesn’t Chung come here to answer the question?

Are you off your rocker?  We’ve chased that idiot fake Dr. off this NG more times than I care to remember.  And now you invite him back? — Type 2 http://users.bestweb.net/~jbove/

Response:

Post this to sci.med.cardiology where Dr. Chung can give you an educated, medical answer.    Since this is a question about diabetes, why doesn’t Chung come here to answer the question?

Why don’t you go over and invite him to? Or email him. "Live To Eat? Nyet. Eat To Live!" http://www.protraineronline.com/

Response:

My friends husband was diagnosed with diabetes. He was put on insulin. About 3 months later he had a heart attack. Then another and then 3 weeks ago he had a 5X bypass surgery. After getting out of the hospital she said they took him off his insulin and his bgs have been normal ever since, well, except when he eats a really high carb meal. She said he can eat donuts and his bg still is under 120. Is this possible? What is going on? Why would bypass surgery improve blood glucose levels? Post this to sci.med.cardiology where Dr. Chung can give you an educated, medical answer.

only if you want a known usenet troll dispensing medical advice. chung a troll. Mu is a chung sock puppet. Mack Type 1 since 1975 http://www.alt-support-diabetes.org http://www.insulin-pumpers.org  In tribute to the United States of America and the State  of Israel, two bastions of strength in a world filled with strife and  terrorism.

Response:

Yes, this is possible.  My step-mom had 5 bypass and went off insulin. ( she passed away 10 yrs ago from a blood clot) The reason for the possibilty is that the blood is flowing much better and the internal organs are working. Ira T2

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My friends husband was diagnosed with diabetes. He was put on insulin. About 3 months later he had a heart attack. Then another and then 3 weeks ago he had a 5X bypass surgery. After getting out of the hospital she said they took him off his insulin and his bgs have been normal ever since, well, except when he eats a really high carb meal. She said he can eat donuts and his bg still is under 120. Is this possible? What is going on? Why would bypass surgery improve blood glucose levels? Dana "Live as though there is no tomorrow,  Love as though you have never been hurt,  Dance as if no one is looking…"       Satchel Paige

Response:

Is this possible? What is going on? Why would bypass surgery improve blood glucose levels? Post this to sci.med.cardiology where Dr. Chung can give you an educated, medical answer.

        Since this is a question about diabetes, why doesn’t Chung come here to answer the question?                         E

Response:

My friends husband was diagnosed with diabetes. He was put on insulin. About 3 months later he had a heart attack. Then another and then 3 weeks ago he had a 5X bypass surgery. After getting out of the hospital she said they took him off his insulin and his bgs have been normal ever since, well, except when he eats a really high carb meal. She said he can eat donuts and his bg still is under 120. Is this possible? What is going on? Why would bypass surgery improve blood glucose levels?

Post this to sci.med.cardiology where Dr. Chung can give you an educated, medical answer. "Live To Eat? Nyet. Eat To Live!" http://www.protraineronline.com/

Response:

My friends husband was diagnosed with diabetes. He was put on insulin. About 3 months later he had a heart attack. Then another and then 3 weeks ago he had a 5X bypass surgery. After getting out of the hospital she said they took him off his insulin and his bgs have been normal ever since, well, except when he eats a really high carb meal. She said he can eat donuts and his bg still is under 120. Is this possible? What is going on? Why would bypass surgery improve blood glucose levels? Dana "Live as though there is no tomorrow,  Love as though you have never been hurt,  Dance as if no one is looking…"       Satchel Paige

Response:

| | Yes, I know this is stupid and I shouldn’t be doing this and it’s probably | all just a scam …. | but I got curious  -_-;;; | I have received this email so many times already, I just HAVE to try it, so | I sent in my | six dollars (well, 5 dollars and 1 euro for the guy in portugal, hope he | doesn’t mind…) | | | GET RICH WITH $6 | | didn’t believe it either, but it really did work!!!!! HOW TO TURN $6 INTO | $6,000!!!!!! READING THIS COULD CHANGE YOUR LIFE! I found this on a bulletin | board and decided to try it. A little while back, I was browsing through | newsgroups, just like you are now, and came across an article similar to | this that said you could make thousands of dollars within weeks with only an | initial investment of $6.00! So I thought, Yeah right, this must be a | scam,but like most of us, I was curious, so I kept reading. Anyway, it said | that you send $1.00 to each of the 6 names and address stated in the | article. You then place your own name and address in the bottom of the list | at #6, and post the article in at least 200 newsgroups. (There are | thousands) No catch, that was it. So after thinking it over, and talking to | a few people first, I thought about trying it. I figured: what have I got to | lose except 6 stamps and $6.00, right? Then I invested the measly $6.00. | Well GUESS WHAT!!… within 7 days, I started getting money in the mail! I | was shocked! I figured it would end soon, but the money just kept coming in. | In my first week, I made about $25.00. By the end of the second week I had | made a total of over $1,000.00! In the third week I had over $10,000.00 and | it’s still growing. This is now my fourth week and I have made a total of | just over $42,000.00 and it’s still coming in rapidly. It’s certainly worth | $6.00, and 6 stamps, I have spent more than that on the lottery!! Let me | tell you how this works and most importantly, why it works….Also, make | sure you print a copy of this article NOW, so you can get the information | off of it as you need it. I promise you that if you follow the directions | exactly, that you will start making more money than you thought possible by | doing something so easy! Suggestion: Read this entire message carefully! | (print it out or download it.) Follow the simple directions and watch the | money come in! It’s easy. It’s legal. And, your investment is only $6.00 | (Plus postage) IMPORTANT: This is not a rip-off; it is not indecent; it is | not illegal; and it is virtually no risk – it really works!!!! If all of the | following instructions are adhered to, you will receive extraordinary | dividends. PLEASE NOTE: Please follow these directions EXACTLY, and $50,000 | or more can be yours in 20 to 60 days. This program remains successful | because of the honesty and integrity of the participants. Please continue | its success by carefully adhering to the instructions. You will now become | part of the Mail Order business. In this business your product is not solid | and tangible, it’s a service. You are in the business of developing Mailing | Lists. Many large corporations are happy to pay big bucks for quality lists. | However, the money made from the mailing lists is secondary to the income | which is made from people like you and me asking to be included in that | list. Here are the 4 easy steps to success: STEP 1: Get 6 separate pieces of | paper and write the following on each piece of paper;PLEASE PUT ME ON YOUR | MAILING LIST. Now get 6 US $1.00 bills and place ONE inside EACH of the 6 | pieces of paper so the bill will not be seen through the envelope (to | prevent thievery). Next, place one paper in each of the 6 envelopes and seal | them. You should now have 6 sealed envelopes, each with a piece of paper | stating the above phrase, your name and address, and a $1.00 bill. What you | are doing is creating a service. THIS IS ABSOLUTELY LEGAL! You are | requesting a legitimate service and you are paying for it! Like most of us I | was a little skeptical and a little worried about the legal aspects of it | all. So I checked it out with the U.S. Post Office (1-800-725-2161) and they | confirmed that it is indeed legal! Mail the 6 envelopes to the following | addresses: | | #1) Carlos louren

URGENT QUESTION

Question:

Ken, I have mostly cough variant asthma and when you start coughing REALLY bad, its almost like you choke and your stomach starts contacting from all the coughing, well it can only contract so much before it tries to get rid of its contents to contract smaller, make since? I duuno if that’s what really happens but that’s what it feels like, force yourself to cough and pay attention, you will notice that your stomach does contract with each cough. also I do keep track of my peak flows they have been staying the in lower yellow zone for most of the last month and since my asthma got really bad last year at this time there trying to beat it this year, last year at this time my pf;’s were already down to 130 (my best is 740) so they already know how fast i can go downhill, especially with the amount of things im allergic to. I forgot to mention the asthma attack is not why I went to Urgent care in the first place, I’ve had  5 Anaphylactic reactions since Nov. and had eaten something that has something im allergic to(soy) and starting having some trouble breathing  and my throat felt like it was getting pretty tight so I figured great another reaction, and headed over to the ER for an epi shot, by the time I got there my throat was loosening up but I was still having trouble breathing and then the coughing started and I realized it was an asthma attack and the dr agreed. So im back on weekly check ups till im back in the green zone. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Dear Heather, Prednisone use can cause the side-effect you describe.  The effect should be temporary. You mentioned "the dry heaves" as the symptom triggering your emergency room visit.  I’m not sure that I understand your description and how it relates to your asthma.  Did someone (you or the emergency doctor) measure your lung function.  How bad was your episode and did it warrant the burst of prednisone you were advised to take? Ken Hi everyone, I have a SMALL problem, I picked up a new pair of glasses last week and have been having trouble using them. I wondered if maybe they gave me the wrong glasses, so today I went back and turns out that my prescription has changed from 6.0 to 7.0 (Major change) in less then a week. What my eye dr thinks caused it is prednisone, last sat 6/20 I landed in Urgent care with an asthma attack ,got dry heaves I was coughing so bad — Kenneth Chapman Director Asthma Centre of The Toronto Hospital Professor of Medicine University of Toronto

Response:

Dear Heather, Prednisone use can cause the side-effect you describe.  The effect should be temporary. You mentioned "the dry heaves" as the symptom triggering your emergency room visit.  I’m not sure that I understand your description and how it relates to your asthma.  Did someone (you or the emergency doctor) measure your lung function.  How bad was your episode and did it warrant the burst of prednisone you were advised to take? Ken Hi everyone, I have a SMALL problem, I picked up a new pair of glasses last week and have been having trouble using them. I wondered if maybe they gave me the wrong glasses, so today I went back and turns out that my prescription has changed from 6.0 to 7.0 (Major change) in less then a week. What my eye dr thinks caused it is prednisone, last sat 6/20 I landed in Urgent care with an asthma attack ,got dry heaves I was coughing so bad

– Kenneth Chapman Director Asthma Centre of The Toronto Hospital Professor of Medicine University of Toronto

Response:

Hi everyone, I have a SMALL problem, I picked up a new pair of glasses last week and have been having trouble using them. I wondered if maybe they gave me the wrong glasses, so today I went back and turns out that my prescription has changed from 6.0 to 7.0 (Major change) in less then a week. What my eye dr thinks caused it is prednisone, last sat 6/20 I landed in Urgent care with an asthma attack ,got dry heaves I was coughing so bad=(  anyway while I was there I was given a neb treatment and IV Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) and told to start my 8 day prednisone burst that night. I know that pred can cause water retention, but in the eyes? and to such an extent that it creates a MAJOR change in vision? My eye dr wants my regular dr to run a blood sugar level to make sure the pred hasn’t messed with my blood sugar level which can cause changes in the eyes. but my regular doctor doesn’t want to do that, he wants to take a wait and see approach. Anyway my questions are 1) can pred cause this? 2) how long will it last? 3) will/should my vision return to normal a few days after the burst is over? (tomorrow is my last day=) Thanks, Heather

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a SMALL problem, I picked up a new pair of glasses last week and have been having trouble using them. I wondered if maybe they gave me the wrong glasses, so today I went back and turns out that my prescription has changed from 6.0 to 7.0 (Major change) in less then a week. What my eye dr thinks caused it is prednisone, last sat 6/20 I landed in Urgent care with an asthma attack ,got dry heaves I was coughing so bad=(  anyway while I was there I was given a neb treatment and IV Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) and told to start my 8 day prednisone burst that night. I know that pred can cause water retention, but in the eyes? and to such an extent that it creates a MAJOR change in vision? My eye dr wants my regular dr to run a blood sugar level to make sure the pred hasn’t messed with my blood sugar level which can cause changes in the eyes. but my regular doctor doesn’t want to do that, he wants to take a wait and see approach. Anyway my questions are 1) can pred cause this? 2) how long will it last? 3) will/should my vision return to normal a few days after the burst is over? (tomorrow is my last day=)

Checking the PI for pred at: http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/pred.htm prednisone Excerpt: "Adverse Reactions: Ophthalmic: Posterior subcapsular cataracts; Increased intraocular  pressure; Glaucoma; Exophthalmos" So the prednisone can increase the pressure in your eyeballs, possibly leading to vision changes. Did the opthalmologist test the pressure in your eyes and was it high? Not sure about the blood sugar comment. Are you diabetic or prediabetic. I’m suprised your GP wouldn’t follow the recommendation of the eye specialist; typical of HMOs (I know you are on the same HMO as I am). Here is more prednisone info: "Adverse Reactions: Fluid and Electrolyte Disturbances: Sodium retention; Fluid retention; Congestive heart failure in susceptible patients; Potassium loss; Hypokalemic alkalosis; Hypertension Musculoskeletal: Muscle weakness; Steroid myopathy; Loss of muscle mass; Osteoporosis; Tendon rupture, particularly of the Achilles tendon; Vertebral compression fractures; Aseptic necrosis of femoral and humeral heads; Pathologic fracture of long bones Gastrointestinal: Peptic ulcer with possible perforation and  hemorrhage; Pancreatitis; Abdominal distention; Ulcerative esophagitis Increases in alanine transaminase (ALT, SGPT), aspartate  transaminase (AST, SGOT) and alkaline phosphatase have been observed following corticosteroid treatment. These changes are usually small, not associated with any clinical syndrome and are reversible upon discontinuation. Dermatologic: Impaired wound healing; Thin fragile skin; Petechiae and ecchymoses; Facial erythema; Increased sweating; May suppress reactions to skin tests Metabolic: Negative nitrogen balance due to protein catabolism Neurological: Increased intracranial pressure with papilledema  (pseudo-tumor cerebri) usually after treatment; Convulsions; Vertigo; Headache Endocrine: Menstrual irregularities; Development of Cushingoid state;  Secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness, particularly  in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery or illness; Suppression of  growth in children; Decreased carbohydrate tolerance; Manifestations  of latent diabetes mellitus; Increased requirements for insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics Ophthalmic: Posterior subcapsular cataracts; Increased intraocular  pressure; Glaucoma; Exophthalmos Metabloic: Negative nitrogen balance due to protein catabolism. Additional Reactions: Urticaria and other allergic, anaphylactic or  hypersensitivity reactions" Lovely stuff this prednisone. The standard pulse dose of prednisone for asthma exacerbations is 40-60 mg for 3-10 days. When your Peak Flows get back into the Green zone (80% PB), the burst can be stopped and High Dose inhaled steroids used, along with bronchodilators as needed; all per Expert Panel Report 2. Steroids should always be used in the minimum dose needed to treat the condition. Ellis

Response:

alone

Question:

I have bad asthma.  I can’t talk to anyone about it easily because my parents don’t understand, my school do not have an asthma policy and my doctor is not very approachable.  I find that I have to cope with my condition very much on my own as there are very few people I know who have a real understanding of what having asthma attacks and living with asthma really is like.  Is there a chat room or something similar where asthmatics can communicate with others who really know what it is like? Any information/suggestions gratefully received. Cath.

Response:

Hello! You have found the right newsgroup! You are not alone! We are a bunch of asthmatics together! I do understand you! When I was younger, 15 years old or so, people said that I was lazy because I could not run or ride a bike like all the youngsters….I was simply asthmatic… Good luck! Yves Dussault, Montreal.

Response:

Cathy Hang in there. I have found this to be an excellent source of info and support.  You can ask questions, or simply lurk a bit and learn new stuff.  WHat I have found is that I am not alone.  ALthough I don’t personally know anyone with asthma as severe as mine, I get on this newsgroup and know lots of people.  This may not make my asthma better, but it does make me take courage and hope from everyone else that we are all in this one together!  Hang out and read some messages, ask your own questions.  If I find a chat room I’ll let you know!   C Bear

Response:

I have bad asthma.  I can’t talk to anyone about it easily because my parents don’t understand, my school do not have an asthma policy and my doctor is not very approachable.  I find that I have to cope with my condition very much on my own as there are very few people I know who have a real understanding of what having asthma attacks and living with asthma really is like.  Is there a chat room or something similar where asthmatics can communicate with others who really know what it is like? Any information/suggestions gratefully received. Cath.

My father used to laugh and call me "sniff-sniff" when I was having a bad asthma attack (the kind where you take a tiny breath in and breath out very slowly with excruciating pain) and had a dripping nose. He said it was all in my head. I was extremely allergic to the alfalfa in hay. He used to have me drive hay wagons between the fields and the barn. I covered my mouth and nose with a bandana, wore a long-sleeved shirt and pants plus gloves in 90-degree weather. One day he made go up to work in the hay mow. I worked for 10 minutes until my older brother stopped the conveyor and said, "Get her out of here or she’s going to die up here." I had many very bad asthma attacks working around hay. I consider myself lucky that I made it to adulthood. Now I worry about how people treat my kids. I’m afraid that my son will have a bad asthma attack at school and it will go unnoticed. I know a little girl who had an attack while swimming in the school pool. She got to the side of the pool and gasped for a friend to get the teacher. The other girl said, "shut up and stop faking" and walked away. Your teacher and class need to be educated about asthma and what to do if you are in trouble. You need to learn to stand up for yourself and set limits. That’s hard to do — to speak up for yourself, sometimes against an adult. When I was a teenager, I finally worked out a compromise with my father — I’d milk cows only if nobody threw hay into their trough while I was working. And I would NEVER handle the bales myself. I’d wash all the milking equipment while somebody else fed the animals. Look in the phone book for a phone number for the American Lung Association. They can send you some free information — like brochures for teachers and parents to help them understand asthma. Mary

Response:

I have bad asthma.  I can’t talk to anyone about it easily because my parents don’t understand, my school do not have an asthma policy and my doctor is not very approachable.  I find that I have to cope with my condition very much on my own as there are very few people I know who have a real understanding of what having asthma attacks and living with asthma really is like.  Is there a chat room or something similar where asthmatics can communicate with others who really know what it is like? Any information/suggestions gratefully received. Cath.

Hi Cath, I am twenty five and have had asthma since I was a small child.  I have recently had quite a bit of trouble with my breathing. I’m taking lots of medications and seeing my very understanding doctor frequently.  When i read your post, I knew just where you were coming from.  My friends and family don’t understand either about how scary it is to have trouble breathing.  I don’t mind as much anymore because I am very thankful that they do not have to experience the torture of inhaling with all your might and just getting a tiny bit of air.  It is scary business, isn’t it! I have found some cool information of the world wide web.  If you search under the word asthma all kinds of interesting sites come up.  There are lots that give information about how to handle things at school and with teachers.  Also I would bet that the school nurse or doctor knows other students who have asthma. You can write to me any time you like.  I have learned good ways for coping and can appreciate being confused about how to handle difficult situations.   Take good care Allison Ps – Be sure to be honest with your folks about how much this is upsetting you!

Response:

I have bad asthma.  I can’t talk to anyone about it easily because my parents don’t understand, my school do not have an asthma policy and my doctor is not very approachable.  I find that I have to cope with my condition very much on my own as there are very few people I know who have a real understanding of what having asthma attacks and living with asthma really is like.  Is there a chat room or something similar where asthmatics can communicate with others who really know what it is like? Any information/suggestions gratefully received. Cath.

I can’t imagine what kind of backward country you must be living in if what you are posting is true. Actually, what you are posting seems impossible.  The first time I had asthma problems, my parents were scared I was going to die. In more recent years I’ve been rushed to the hospital at least four times.  Doctors treat my problem, believe me. How do you know YOU have asthma? if…

Response:

Michael, Don’t be so almighty.  One does not have to live in a backwards country as you put it, to run into the problems posted in the original note.  You are fortunate that your family reacted with support, but remember that asthma has many forms.  Not everyone wheezes and gasps for breath with every attack.  Some people cough, and as you well know what starts as a mild attack can quickly escalate to a life threatening situation.   I live here in our modern country, and while I have a wonderful family, none of them suffer with any major medical conditions, and while they know what asthma is, they do not comprehend the feeling of suffocation I suffer during an attack.  When they do realize I’m in dire need, they panic, so I learned very quickly to become an informed patient, and not to panic.   Like you, I am lucky to have at least one doctor who is approachable, and being a Osteopath, always tries to explain things.  However, I have other specialist, who explain little and actually seem aggitated when the patient asks for more specific info.  Remember there are still a lot of doctors out there that prefer the patient keep them on a pedestal and take what little info they provide as the given gospel.   I’m to old to know a whole lot about the schools today, but I do know that in our community they are so afraid of being sued, and trying to hard to fight drugs that the students can actually be expelled for a year if they are caught even with aspirin in their posession.  All required medicines (yes even for high schoolers) have to be brought to the nurse/office with written notice from either the parent or the physician.  That is life today, so wake up.  

Response:

I went to the emergency room with my asthma before it got to the wheezing stage and the doctor informed me I was not having an asthma attack but that I had emotional problems!  Luckily my doctor was in the building and everything was taken care of.  Yet if I wait until I am wheezing then the doctors inform me that I’ve waited too long.   I wasn’t diagnosed with asthma until about 10 years ago.  My step mother is a nurse and I was treated all through my childhood for TB and was in and out of Riley Children’s Hospital until I was 16.  Not one person caught that I had asthma! So it’s just not backward relatives who don’t understand asthma.   — Lee – Indiana – Practice random acts of kindness and senseless beauty. Below is Web site URL and actual e-mail address: http://www.scican.net/~haxton/home.html

Response:

I went to the emergency room with my asthma before it got to the wheezing stage and the doctor informed me I was not having an asthma attack but that I had emotional problems!  Luckily my doctor was in the building and everything was taken care of.  Yet if I wait until I am wheezing then the doctors inform me that I’ve waited too long.  

I missed the original posting, but I saw this and had to post, because the same thing happened to me (I was having a severe attack, and an ER nurse shouted into my face that I was "just trying to get out of a midterm."  I coughed on her, and twelve hours later I was readmitted for a combination of asthma and an ulcer (brought on by a combination of stress, influenza, and Jolt Cola with pizza for breakfast.  Not a smart move, not the fault of the fine folks at Jolt Cola, my own fault.) I should have sued for gross negligence, instead I just went back to the hospital (partly hoping to get a tombstone that said "I told you I was sick."  This is *NOT* the recommended astma treatment approach (dying)). One of the best ways to avoid dying is to stick to your guns, communicate with those around you how serious it can be (show them statistics if you have to), and no matter what, try to realize that you can still live your life.  (There are Olympic athletes with asthma.  As far as I know, there are *no* Olympic athletes with untreated asthma.) Hang in there, and with the exception of the spammers (who don’t count), we’re all in this together. Scott T."he ER nurse wasn’t there the next day, which left me with some unused comebacks."

Response:

I went to the ER for an attack and before the treatments were given, I was asked a whole list of questions (not just general health questions like what medications & was allergic to or what I was taking) these were more like had I have been intibated, hospitalized, etc which I had to answer while gasping for air (they had my chart in their hands the whole time and could have looked it up)  I was given two breathing treatments of Provintal and then sent home. I was home less than 1/2 hour when I could stand it no longer and had to go back.  The same Dr. was assigned to me again.  This time I got Prednisone in an IV right away (no questions asked) and the Dr. didn’t even come in to see me.  I wonder what the hospital & the insurance co. thought about th entire incident!!! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I went to the emergency room with my asthma before it got to the wheezing stage and the doctor informed me I was not having an asthma attack but that I had emotional problems!  Luckily my doctor was in the building and everything was taken care of.  Yet if I wait until I am wheezing then the doctors inform me that I’ve waited too long.   I missed the original posting, but I saw this and had to post, because the same thing happened to me (I was having a severe attack, and an ER nurse shouted into my face that I was "just trying to get out of a midterm."  I coughed on her, and twelve hours later I was readmitted for a combination of asthma and an ulcer (brought on by a combination of stress, influenza, and Jolt Cola with pizza for breakfast.  Not a smart move, not the fault of the fine folks at Jolt Cola, my own fault.) I should have sued for gross negligence, instead I just went back to the hospital (partly hoping to get a tombstone that said "I told you I was sick."  This is *NOT* the recommended astma treatment approach (dying)). One of the best ways to avoid dying is to stick to your guns, communicate with those around you how serious it can be (show them statistics if you have to), and no matter what, try to realize that you can still live your life.  (There are Olympic athletes with asthma.  As far as I know, there are *no* Olympic athletes with untreated asthma.) Hang in there, and with the exception of the spammers (who don’t count), we’re all in this together. Scott T."he ER nurse wasn’t there the next day, which left me with some unused comebacks."

Response:

It is pretty strange that they didn’t make you stick around after the first treatment, and test your flow rates.  Usually they make me stick around til they are sure I am fine.  Not sure about that doc, or was is the respiratory therapist. Sarah – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I went to the ER for an attack and before the treatments were given, I was asked a whole list of questions (not just general health questions like what medications & was allergic to or what I was taking) these were more like had I have been intibated, hospitalized, etc which I had to answer while gasping for air (they had my chart in their hands the whole time and could have looked it up)  I was given two breathing treatments of Provintal and then sent home. I was home less than 1/2 hour when I could stand it no longer and had to go back.  The same Dr. was assigned to me again.  This time I got Prednisone in an IV right away (no questions asked) and the Dr. didn’t even come in to see me.  I wonder what the hospital & the insurance co. thought about th entire incident!!! I went to the emergency room with my asthma before it got to the wheezing stage and the doctor informed me I was not having an asthma attack but that I had emotional problems!  Luckily my doctor was in the building and everything was taken care of.  Yet if I wait until I am wheezing then the doctors inform me that I’ve waited too long. I missed the original posting, but I saw this and had to post, because the same thing happened to me (I was having a severe attack, and an ER nurse shouted into my face that I was "just trying to get out of a midterm."  I coughed on her, and twelve hours later I was readmitted for a combination of asthma and an ulcer (brought on by a combination of stress, influenza, and Jolt Cola with pizza for breakfast.  Not a smart move, not the fault of the fine folks at Jolt Cola, my own fault.) I should have sued for gross negligence, instead I just went back to the hospital (partly hoping to get a tombstone that said "I told you I was sick."  This is *NOT* the recommended astma treatment approach (dying)). One of the best ways to avoid dying is to stick to your guns, communicate with those around you how serious it can be (show them statistics if you have to), and no matter what, try to realize that you can still live your life.  (There are Olympic athletes with asthma.  As far as I know, there are *no* Olympic athletes with untreated asthma.) Hang in there, and with the exception of the spammers (who don’t count), we’re all in this together. Scott T."he ER nurse wasn’t there the next day, which left me with some unused comebacks."

Response:

As some lone bird, without a mate, my weary heart is desolate. I look around, and cannot trace, one friendly smile or welcome face. And even in crowds am still alone, because I cannot love but one. And I will cross the whitening foam, and I will seek a foreign home; till I forget a false fair face, I never shall find a resting place. My own dark thoughts I cannot shun, but ever love, and love but one. The poorest, veriest wretch on earth still finds some hospitable hearth where friendship