Question:

The trainer’s recommendation of Alleve is a good one.  Or use anything similar that you have on hand, like Advil (ibuprofen).  Aspirin is okay, too, but the NSAIDs (stuff like Advil and Alleve) are better for reducing inflammation as well as pain. And it’s good to eat something after exercise — preferably soon thereafter.  It should include carbs and protein.  Just allow for it in your day’s calories. And don’t worry, it gets better .  You’ll feel better tomorrow, and soon you won’t find that exercise makes you sore unless you do something new and different.  The soreness means you’re building muscle, so enjoy it . Chris 262/130s/130s

Response:

had my first session with a personal trainer today. his words:  "you’ll probably wanna keep some alleve by the bed, and you’re gonna be relatively useless tomorrow." i worked the chest, the bi and triceps, the back, and I did elliptical for about tswenty minutes.  now who can tell me what to get for the pain I feel in my muscles!? it was funny – being new to the whole exercise thing (as in a few weeks in) I notice that I am ungodly hungry when I return home. — "…that simple light may rise out of complex darkness." and don’t forget to run like an antelope. http://www.jimhutchison.com http://music.jimhutchison.com

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The trainer’s recommendation of Alleve is a good one.  Or use anything similar that you have on hand, like Advil (ibuprofen).  Aspirin is okay, too, but the NSAIDs (stuff like Advil and Alleve) are better for reducing inflammation as well as pain. And it’s good to eat something after exercise — preferably soon thereafter.  It should include carbs and protein.  Just allow for it in your day’s calories. And don’t worry, it gets better .  You’ll feel better tomorrow, and soon you won’t find that exercise makes you sore unless you do something new and different.  The soreness means you’re building muscle, so enjoy it . Chris 262/130s/130s

thanks Chris! As funny as it may sound, when I felt like this may be the proper time for me to actually be serious, I started lurking ASD again, and then I finally posted a few weeks later. This incredible thing is happening within me – I think it’s called drive to find my inner hottie (bwa ha haa) – and I am finding that my body actually craves the gym, especially that elliptical trainer.  I strap on some Jamiroquai in the iPod, and twenty minutes are gone like that!  I’m going to move my routine up to thirty minutes cardio week-daily (M-F) and see how my asthma likes that.  I’m going to do Monday and Friday as upper body days, and then Wednesdays as lower body, and I’m gonna try and put the cardio in (the long cardio on the elliptical) after the weight training. I wonder:  do you think a 27-y/o male (me) who is 5′-10" and weighs 218 should be trying to shoot for 1600 calories or less a day?  or should I try and keep it around 2k?  My "diet" (I think of it as a lifestyle change) is basically 50% carbs, 30% protein, and 20% total fat intake, and I keep the calories around 1600, and the saturated fat under 16g.  Does it sound like I’m setting myself up for failure?  I use this little program called Diet and Exercise Assistant from Keyoe, and I have sort-of customized the lowfat stock plan a little. Well, enough rambling Jimmy

Response:

How about trying to go for 2000 and seeing what happens with that?  If you are steadily losing in the 1-2 lbs/week range, you’ve got it about right.  Faster loss at first is normal, but if you steadily lose more than about 2 lbs/week you will end up with less muscle than you want.

Yes, this is good advice. 1lb/week is recommended max loss rate to keep the muscle. 2lbs/week is doable but you will lose more muscle. I recommend 1lb/week, since this is 50lbs/year and doesn’t require such a radical lifestyle change. Just adjust your food intake to keep on this pace. What I did was keep a running average: today’s average = yesterday’s average x 0.75 + today’s weight x 0.25. This is a deceptively simple formula that is actually a sophisticated way to smooth out the random weight fluctuations. I recommend ignoring what the scale says and just use the moving average as your primary guide on how much to eat. I think your ratios are pretty decent, though I might be inclined to up the fat and protein just a bit and cut back a little on carbs.  If you add fats, they should be "good fats" like nuts, olive oil, and avocado — not too much dairy and meat fats.  And your carbs should emphasize whole grains, veggies, and fruits — not too much white flour and sugar.  But you probably know this stuff .  More protein will help you get stronger as well as leaner.

Plus the important thing is to eat ~300kcal of carb/protein mix within 30minutes of workouts. This window is when the muscles are really looking for that stuff. Heywood 232/180s

Response:

I wonder:  do you think a 27-y/o male (me) who is 5′-10" and weighs 218 should be trying to shoot for 1600 calories or less a day?  or should I try and keep it around 2k?  My "diet" (I think of it as a lifestyle change) is basically 50% carbs, 30% protein, and 20% total fat intake, and I keep the calories around 1600, and the saturated fat under 16g.  Does it sound like I’m setting myself up for failure?  I use this little program called Diet and Exercise Assistant from Keyoe, and I have sort-of customized the lowfat stock plan a little.

I think this may a bit low in calories for you.  That’s generally what I ate at first to lose weight — starting at 262 lbs — and then I cut back gradually to around 1300 as I neared goal.  I’m now maintaining at about 1600 calories per day.  But I’m a 57-year-old female.  Both age and gender make a big difference here.   How about trying to go for 2000 and seeing what happens with that?  If you are steadily losing in the 1-2 lbs/week range, you’ve got it about right.  Faster loss at first is normal, but if you steadily lose more than about 2 lbs/week you will end up with less muscle than you want. I think your ratios are pretty decent, though I might be inclined to up the fat and protein just a bit and cut back a little on carbs.  If you add fats, they should be "good fats" like nuts, olive oil, and avocado — not too much dairy and meat fats.  And your carbs should emphasize whole grains, veggies, and fruits — not too much white flour and sugar.  But you probably know this stuff .  More protein will help you get stronger as well as leaner. Chris 262/130s/130s started dieting July 2002, maintaining since June 2004

Response:

The alleve should help but the soreness will be there for several days.  As for the hunger, you feel that because you’re burning more sugar for energy and are not in optimum shape.  The more you exercise and the fitter you get you will get thirsty.  You still need to eat after you workout but that explains some things for you.

   Interesting.  I’ve been feeling thirstier than normal since I started losing weight, but I didn’t know if I was just imagining it or not. Luckily my preferred drink is plain water, so I don’t really care how much I feel the need to drink, but I am curious as to why losing weight would lead to increased thirst. — Annie 258/224.5/140  Standing at 5 foot 4. 33.5 pounds lost.  84.5 left to go. Started February/07/05

Response:

The alleve should help but the soreness will be there for several days.  As for the hunger, you feel that because you’re burning more sugar for energy and are not in optimum shape.  The more you exercise and the fitter you get you will get thirsty.  You still need to eat after you workout but that explains some things for you. AK www.fitnessplanning.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – had my first session with a personal trainer today. his words:  "you’ll probably wanna keep some alleve by the bed, and you’re gonna be relatively useless tomorrow." i worked the chest, the bi and triceps, the back, and I did elliptical for about tswenty minutes.  now who can tell me what to get for the pain I feel in my muscles!? it was funny – being new to the whole exercise thing (as in a few weeks in) I notice that I am ungodly hungry when I return home. — "…that simple light may rise out of complex darkness." and don’t forget to run like an antelope. http://www.jimhutchison.com http://music.jimhutchison.com

Response:

Question:

I’m relatively new to this asthma thing and am getting ready to go back to my doctor to talk about a long-lasting medication of some sort

Steve, as another newbie who’s going through a similar scenario, I bought a peak flow meter and it’s really helping me distinguish between good and bad times. It’s nice to have some more objective measure of how I’m doing. I’m also only using a short term inhaler and will be talking with the dr about something better in a few days. I know exactly what you mean about discovering how limited your breathing has been even when you think you’re doing pretty well. It’s amazing, isn’t it? Truly makes me wonder how long this has been going on! –Sheila

Response:

I think you should get one.  A doctor gave me one when I was diagnosed.  It is a "Personal Best" it looks really cheap and din’t cost me a dime.  Beware of folks trying to sell you stuff here. v/r Pat To reply to sender:  remove the capitalized letters and delete the underscores. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m relatively new to this asthma thing and am getting ready to go back to my doctor to talk about a long-lasting medication of some sort because I’ve been needing to use my inhaler every day before I exercise.  Using my inhaler this way, while initially just to relieve the symptoms of exercise-induced asthma, has made me realize how impaired my breathing is most of the time, even when not exercising. I’m currently taking Zyrtec every day.  The thing that convinced me I need to take the next step was when I was in the pool with my kids a few hours after running.  My kids and I like to play a game where we see who can hold their breath underwater the longest.  Because I’d used an inhaler a few hours earlier, I was able to hold my breath more than twice as long as I ever had before and even that was easy (1:00 vs. :25 max prior to this date). I’ve read about people testing their Peak Flow before and after an inhaler to see what the difference is.  Is such a gadget inexpensive enough for me to buy and use at home?  From what I’ve read, reading vary greatly and technique matters, so I thought practicing on one every day for a while might be beneficial, and the statistics about my peak flow before and after interesting. Thanks in advance for any advice, comments, and the like. -S-

Response:

I have a Pocketpeak

Question:

I just started to take the Advair Diskus powder inhaler and am having mixed feelings. I like the 1 puff twice a day routine but I am having trouble telling if the medication has actually been dispensed. I seem to experience a slight taste in my mouth but thats it.  I have always had trouble inhaling properly so that leads to my concern about whether I am actually getting the medication. Lyall Kingman

Response:

My doctor advised me to purse my lips and inhale as if I was sipping from a drinking straw. The taste you are noticing is lactose (milk sugar), which is the medium the powdered medications are mixed with. She also advised me to not inhale hard and fast but relatively slow and steady instead. Just be sure to rinse! — Dan Rhea "Loyalty is for family, friends and country, not operating systems, compilers and computers"   – Dan Rhea, 1986

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just started to take the Advair Diskus powder inhaler and am having mixed feelings. I like the 1 puff twice a day routine but I am having trouble telling if the medication has actually been dispensed. I seem to experience a slight taste in my mouth but thats it.  I have always had trouble inhaling properly so that leads to my concern about whether I am actually getting the medication. Lyall Kingman

Response:

[...] The taste you are noticing is lactose (milk sugar), which is the medium the powdered medications are mixed with.

GAH!  What idiot thought up that?  You think they’d have used dextrose or some other less-offensive sugar for the power medium.  Are _all_ the powder inhalers formulated with lactose?  If so, I better pray they never discontinue the MDIs… — Head Muso, White Rats Morris Member, Knights of Xenu (1995).  Chaos Monger and Jill of All Trades. "A head-on collision between Morticia Adams and Martha Stewart"

Response:

I just started to take the Advair Diskus powder inhaler and am having mixed feelings. I like the 1 puff twice a day routine but I am having trouble telling if the medication has actually been dispensed. I seem to experience a slight taste in my mouth but thats it.  I have always had trouble inhaling properly so that leads to my concern about whether I am actually getting the medication. Lyall Kingman

Hello Lyall, I started Advair last month.  The first day morning I inhaled I obviously missed as I had powder on the outside of my mouth. That evening I used the diskus properly.  I had an asthma attack late that night.  Since then I have used it properly (and yes I taste the med also) and have not had an asthma attack. I think if your were not using the diskus in the proper manner you would be able to tell by how your asthma is doing. Patrice

Response:

The medication has a slight sweet taste to it… If you taste this then you are dispensing the medication properly…

Response:

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – After having chronic progressively worse asthma attacks, which my doc. ignored, I was put on Serevent.  Serevent disturbed my sleep, which made me tired. After several month with little or no sleep, I got extremely ill with pneumonia.  My doc gave me a high step down dosage of Predisone and continued me on Serevent. THIS COMBINATION is DEADLY.   I ended up in a manic psychosis and lost 10 entire days due to amnesia. It took my family a couple days to figure out that I wasn’t in my right mind, and if they hadn’t I would be dead. During the first two days of my psychosis I quit my job, attack a lady and stole my own car. (driving down the wrong side of the highway) PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE be careful using Predisone. It is much more dangerous than any doctor will admit.

It is possible that you had latent bipolar or other mental illness, that was sufficiently mild that it had gone unnoticed until now. A good friend of mine had mild mood swings throughout her life, but she didn’t tip over into full manic-depression until she was in her thirties. — Steven D. Litvintchouk                   Disclaimer:  As far as I am aware, the opinions expressed herein             are not those of my employer.

Response:

The problem is most likely related to the Prednisone, with the Serevent not involved. All sources I can find for data on Prednisone suggest that its use may have psychological consequences. I believe, in fact, that if you surveyed people who have used Prednisone that a vast majority suffered at least mood swings, and that the resultant stress, to the patient, and associates, is the single biggest complaint about prednisone. Medical web sites caution that psychological manifestations due to Prednisone may include psychosis. Boyd

Wow – I must be one lucky chick.  I have never had any psychological effects from Prednisone and I have been taking it in short bursts since I was a kid, to the last 3 years when I have been taking it daily.  I guess this is another sign of how individual asthma and asthma treatments are.   I might however, bring this information up the next time Im being cranky.  That way I can stay out of trouble <G Life is uncertain – eat dessert first. Nancy 8=: )

Response:

I’ve used prednisone with Serevent with no problem.  I don’t believe that this combination is usually dangerous, since so many people are on Serevent. However, I truly believe that some people can become manic on prednisone.  I get that way myself, but certainly not psychotic!  What does your doctor say about all of this??? Bob

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – After having chronic progressively worse asthma attacks, which my doc. ignored, I was put on Serevent.  Serevent disturbed my sleep, which made me tired. After several month with little or no sleep, I got extremely ill with pneumonia.  My doc gave me a high step down dosage of Predisone and continued me on Serevent. THIS COMBINATION is DEADLY.   I ended up in a manic psychosis and lost 10 entire days due to amnesia. It took my family a couple days to figure out that I wasn’t in my right mind, and if they hadn’t I would be dead. During the first two days of my psychosis I quit my job, attack a lady and stole my own car. (driving down the wrong side of the highway) PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE be careful using Predisone. It is much more dangerous than any doctor will admit. Thanks for letting me vent. Jen

Response:

My wife has been on both of these drugs for some years. She has had no episodes such as you describe. So it’s a possibility, but it is not a certainty. Good luck.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – After having chronic progressively worse asthma attacks, which my doc. ignored, I was put on Serevent.  Serevent disturbed my sleep, which made me tired. After several month with little or no sleep, I got extremely ill with pneumonia.  My doc gave me a high step down dosage of Predisone and continued me on Serevent. THIS COMBINATION is DEADLY.   I ended up in a manic psychosis and lost 10 entire days due to amnesia. It took my family a couple days to figure out that I wasn’t in my right mind, and if they hadn’t I would be dead. During the first two days of my psychosis I quit my job, attack a lady and stole my own car. (driving down the wrong side of the highway) PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE be careful using Predisone. It is much more dangerous than any doctor will admit. Thanks for letting me vent. Jen

Response:

My wife has been on both of these drugs for some years. She has had no episodes such as you describe. So it’s a possibility, but it is not a certainty. Good luck.

Based on my reading of this newsgroup for several years, I am convinced that most of us here have been on these drugs for some years — probably with Serevent  used twice a day, every day, and prednisone at least episodically over the same period. We would all agree that prednisone in high dosages over time can have all kinds of unpleasant and scary effects, including emotional ups and downs and sleeplessness. And the reporting of such episodes — at least on this newsgroup — would appear to be extremely rare. I do believe that the original poster had some problems while on these two medications. However, I would hope that, given the alternatives, the report of what seems to have been one very rare occurrence will not convince newer and less experienced asthmatics that they should refuse to take these medications when, indeed, the medications can be, and usually are, effective and even life-saving. Emily

Response:

Inn regard to the sleeplessness….I’ve been on various amounts of Prednisone since November, and haven’t really had a good night’s sleep since then.  I fall asleep OK, wake up 2-3 hours later and am awake 2-3 hours.  If I’m lucky, I fall back asleep at 6:00 am for an hour.  Anyone had this problem?  What do you do? The other thing is difficulty concentrating, however, I am on so many meds, it’s hard to tell which causes that.  Or maybe it’s old age Moe

Response:

Inn regard to the sleeplessness….I’ve been on various amounts of Prednisone since November, and haven’t really had a good night’s sleep since then.  I fall asleep OK, wake up 2-3 hours later and am awake 2-3 hours.  If I’m lucky, I fall back asleep at 6:00 am for an hour.  Anyone had this problem?  What do you do? The other thing is difficulty concentrating, however, I am on so many meds, it’s hard to tell which causes that.  Or maybe it’s old age Moe

I’ve been doing this for the last two months. Mine is worse because of an increase in the dosage of theophylline, which can keep me jinxy without any help from the big P. I mostly get up and write dumb messges to newsgroups . . . Emily

Response:

I have manic problems when I take predinzone and while I have never gone that far over the edge I have spent several thousand bucks while out there, my wife really lays low. When I was working I had a rage problem with one co worker and the boss just ducked for cover. So when you start taking the stuff give your spouse your check book and credit cards until you see how you react. It is not a bad idea to have a major tranqualzer around that you spouse might be able to talk you into taking until things calm down. It sure help me a couple of times. It’s nasty stuff for some of us but it beats not breathing. Gordon Gordon Couger Stillwater OK – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I’ve used prednisone with Serevent with no problem.  I don’t believe that this combination is usually dangerous, since so many people are on Serevent. However, I truly believe that some people can become manic on prednisone.  I get that way myself, but certainly not psychotic!  What does your doctor say about all of this??? Bob After having chronic progressively worse asthma attacks, which my doc. ignored, I was put on Serevent.  Serevent disturbed my sleep, which made me tired. After several month with little or no sleep, I got extremely ill with pneumonia.  My doc gave me a high step down dosage of Predisone and continued me on Serevent. THIS COMBINATION is DEADLY.   I ended up in a manic psychosis and lost 10 entire days due to amnesia. It took my family a couple days to figure out that I wasn’t in my right mind, and if they hadn’t I would be dead. During the first two days of my psychosis I quit my job, attack a lady and stole my own car. (driving down the wrong side of the highway) PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE be careful using Predisone. It is much more dangerous than any doctor will admit. Thanks for letting me vent. Jen

Gordon Couger Stillwater OK

Response:

Prednisone gives me a big boost of energy and I stay up all night cleaning and feel like I can do anything until it wears off and I crash and can’t hardly move.  I don’t want to take it again unless is absolutely necessary!

Response:

After several month with little or no sleep, I got extremely ill with pneumonia.  My doc gave me a high step down dosage of Predisone and continued me on Serevent. THIS COMBINATION is DEADLY. Hiya – I have been taking daily prednisone in combination with other meds including Serevent for the last 3 years, at least.  The dosages have been varying, from the all time high of 90mg to my current low of 15mg.  I have never had anything remotely happen like you have described.

http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/pred_wcp.htm See warning about both infections and psychosis. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I would investigate more to find out what really happened.

Response:

The problem is most likely related to the Prednisone, with the Serevent not involved. All sources I can find for data on Prednisone suggest that its use may have psychological consequences. I believe, in fact, that if you surveyed people who have used Prednisone that a vast majority suffered at least mood swings, and that the resultant stress, to the patient, and associates, is the single biggest complaint about prednisone. Medical web sites caution that psychological manifestations due to Prednisone may include psychosis. Boyd — "The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity."

Response:

The problem is most likely related to the Prednisone, with the Serevent not involved. All sources I can find for data on Prednisone suggest that its use may have psychological consequences. I believe, in fact, that if you surveyed people who have used Prednisone that a vast majority suffered at least mood swings, and that the resultant stress, to the patient, and associates, is the single biggest complaint about prednisone. Medical web sites caution that psychological manifestations due to Prednisone may include psychosis.

Prednisone makes me *really* cranky and short-tempered…which is a very unlike my normal personality.   The first and only time I have had to be on prednisone, my kids thought an evil alien life form had replaced me as their Mom. Patrice

Response:

Exactly correct. — CBI, MD

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The problem is most likely related to the Prednisone, with the Serevent not involved. All sources I can find for data on Prednisone suggest that its use may have psychological consequences. I believe, in fact, that if you surveyed people who have used Prednisone that a vast majority suffered at least mood swings, and that the resultant stress, to the patient, and associates, is the single biggest complaint about prednisone. Medical web sites caution that psychological manifestations due to Prednisone may include psychosis. Boyd — "The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity."

Response:

After having chronic progressively worse asthma attacks, which my doc. ignored, I was put on Serevent.  Serevent disturbed my sleep, which made me tired. After several month with little or no sleep, I got extremely ill with pneumonia.  My doc gave me a high step down dosage of Predisone and continued me on Serevent. THIS COMBINATION is DEADLY.   I ended up in a manic psychosis and lost 10 entire days due to amnesia. It took my family a couple days to figure out that I wasn’t in my right mind, and if they hadn’t I would be dead. During the first two days of my psychosis I quit my job, attack a lady and stole my own car. (driving down the wrong side of the highway) PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE be careful using Predisone. It is much more dangerous than any doctor will admit. Thanks for letting me vent. Jen

Response:

After several month with little or no sleep, I got extremely ill with pneumonia.  My doc gave me a high step down dosage of Predisone and continued me on Serevent. THIS COMBINATION is DEADLY.  

Hiya – I have been taking daily prednisone in combination with other meds including Serevent for the last 3 years, at least.  The dosages have been varying, from the all time high of 90mg to my current low of 15mg.  I have never had anything remotely happen like you have described. I would investigate more to find out what really happened.  It could be that you are sensitive to either of the meds and didnt know it.  It could have been something else (were you taking any other meds, like an antibiotic for the pneumonia? Maybe that is what you are sensitive to?). I understand that you were very frightened by what happened to you and you posted this to help people, but you might have panicked people needlessly. Asthma is a VERY individualized disease and what works or not works for someone will work perfectly for each other. In any case, prednisone use is usually monitored pretty closely, it isnt something you figure out for yourself.  Keep your doctor posted often, so that any irregularities can be handled at the earliest sign. Life is uncertain – eat dessert first. Nancy 8=: )

Response:

Question:

June he finally did an x-ray  and found a spot in his lung.  three weeks and a half later  after a brohchial test which takes us to the end part of july they biopsied small cell caarcinome  

Dear Fannymae, Thank you so much for sharing that and I am so very sorry for you and your husband.  My prayers will be with you. God bless you and your husband! Pam

Response:

Fannymae – I’m so sorry for you at this time – my mother had small cell lung cancer and the doctors told us it was in her system for 2 to 3 years before it showed up on her lung – so I’m wondering if your husband didn’t need the treatment he had and this is something else entirely. Small cell is related to smoking in the majority of cases so if he has smoked then perhaps he needed help to breathe before the  cancer showed up. God bless you in this difficult time. Sherry

Response:

How soon after taking Flovent did you get hoarse? Does it get better with constant use?

Response:

in reguards to the description of breathing problems i would like to cry wolf;; pleae all listen.  19 months ago  my husband got sick  since never been sick a day in his life i got my pulmonologist to see him  he was hospitaliized  for 9 days  and began care in his office for bronchitis at that time his x-ray was  ok .   after six month he still could not breathe well and they put him back on preidisone  and an antibiotic  three months later th same thing  in jan he said high blood pressure  so he added another drug still no luck;;  by  april we did the predisonn  and antibioticc again.    June he finally did an x-ray  and found a spot in his lung.  three weeks and a half later  after a brohchial test which takes us to the end part of july they biopsied small cell caarcinome  and gave him off to another doctor  an oncologist.   all the time we messed with the predisonne  and antibiotics seems like  a cover of the real thing..  therefore i sugest if you dont like the way you breathe  dont relie on predisonne to make you well and not cure you  i agree  it made him feel better  too but he still lost a lot of valuable time  with the real cause and that is the reason i tell you our story  i think he might have had a better chance if things were not taken for granted        frannymae   http://community.webtv.net/frannymae/FRANSHOME

Response:

: I have been on Flovent about 2 years, and for most of that time I have had : hoarseness to varying degrees. Sometimes it is like a case of good : old-fashioned laryngitis. So from my experience, I can’t say it goes away : with use. I don’t like this side effect, but my asthma is much better : controlled than ever before, so I guess it’s a tradeoff. : Joan

: How soon after taking Flovent did you get hoarse? Does it get better with : constant use? I stay hoarse most of the time. One thing that helps is to lower the pitch of your voice. I got the tip from an old auctioneer. — Gordon    W5RED

Response:

<snip  I don’t understand how the asthma could have gotten so bad so fast.  I had mild breathing problems, but nothing like this.  I wasn’t diagnoised with asthma until a few months ago.  . . .

In my case, we think the asthma was "turned on" by a virus I had in my lungs. The first year I was diagnosed, I was on burst and tapers of prednisone 9 times.  The next year, it was down to 5 times, the third year, it was down to twice.  For me, the asthma started bad and slowly got better.  My problem is I also have a cardiac condition that sort of complicates things.  I think some of my cardiac problems mimic the asthma problems.  It took a while to sort everything out.  You are doing the right thing by learning all that you can. Hang in there and take care.  Shannon

Response:

I have been on Flovent about 2 years, and for most of that time I have had hoarseness to varying degrees. Sometimes it is like a case of good old-fashioned laryngitis. So from my experience, I can’t say it goes away with use. I don’t like this side effect, but my asthma is much better controlled than ever before, so I guess it’s a tradeoff. Joan

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How soon after taking Flovent did you get hoarse? Does it get better with constant use?

Response:

Therefore, it is on my list of medications I’d use ONLY if nothing else worked!

I have had severe breathing problems since May and my doctors have put me on several different types of medications to try to improve the breathing difficulties.  I have to go in for pulmonary function tests this week and so far Prednisone is the only drug that has improved the asthma symptoms.  My chest is no longer tight and I have no breathing problems at all. Before Prednisone, I couldn’t even go outside without having breathing problems.  I will only be on the Prednisone for two more days.  I am just hoping the asthma symptoms do not return once I am off the Prednisone. I may not have much choice in what I can use to try to control my asthma. Pam

Response:

I have developed a love/hate relationship with prednisone.  I love the way it makes me feel, I hate the way it makes me feel.

I know what you mean…I love the freedom Prednisone allows me to have, but I hate the way it makes me feel.  I have noticed some depression.  Of course, the depression could be a result of trying to cope with an illness that I know very little about. I have the bitchy attitude as well.  Of course the bitchy attitude does me no good.  The Flovent has given me a hoarse voice and no one can hear what I am saying when I do feel like yelling at someone.  I feel pretty stupid trying to gripe at someone when all I can do is speak in a very low voice.   I don’t understand how the asthma could have gotten so bad so fast.  I had mild breathing problems, but nothing like this.  I wasn’t diagnoised with asthma until a few months ago.  My father and son’s asthma was never this bad. Thanks, Pam

Response:

Prednisone?  . . .

I have developed a love/hate relationship with prednisone.  I love the way it makes me feel, I hate the way it makes me feel. My side effects include: insomnia, nervousness, increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, face swelling, hunger, joint pain, bitchy additude, and sudden crying bursts.  But, boy, it takes care of the asthma.  Lucky for me, I don’t need it very often, but when my asthma flares, it does help. Hope you are feeling better soon.  Take care, Shannon

Response:

My husband was on Prednisone for the pain associated with his peripheral arthritis and ulcerative colitis.  Prednisone makes you feel better but it also can mask real problems.  He was in the midst of a massive infection from the colitis and felt great!  If I hadn’t noticed he had a fever, he may not have gotten treatment until his badly damaged colon had burst.  He came very close to dying and almost surely would have had his colon burst.  A friend’s father (also with ulcerative colitis) died at 72 from a Prednisone reaction. My sister, a nurse, has had several negative experiences with patients on Prednisone.  Therefore, it is on my list of medications I’d use ONLY if nothing else worked! I personally feel it is one of those "over-used" drugs.  It sure seems to be thrown at everyone. Good Luck!

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Could someone tell me what side effects they have experienced with Prednisone? I was put on 50 milligrams for six days.  One side effect that I am experiencing so far is nervousness.  I have also lost my appetite.  Of course I am on many other medications, so I have no idea which one is effecting my appetite.  The medications I am currently taking is Levaquin, Serevent, Flovent, Rhinocort, Singulair, and Allfen.  I also take Albuterol  inhaler and Xopenex as needed. Fortunately, I haven’t had to take either one since Monday. This is my first experience with Prednisone, and I really hope it is my last. Pam

Response:

Could someone tell me what side effects they have experienced with Prednisone? I was put on 50 milligrams for six days.  One side effect that I am experiencing so far is nervousness.  I have also lost my appetite.  Of course I am on many other medications, so I have no idea which one is effecting my appetite.  The medications I am currently taking is Levaquin, Serevent, Flovent, Rhinocort, Singulair, and Allfen.  I also take Albuterol  inhaler and Xopenex as needed. Fortunately, I haven’t had to take either one since Monday. This is my first experience with Prednisone, and I really hope it is my last. Pam

Response:

I used to delay taking it, try to talk my doctor out of prescribing it, etc.

It took me two days to get up the nerve to take it.  I try to do exactly what my doctors tell me to do, but I am pretty nervous about taking prednisone. I guess I am having hot flashes as well.  I guess that is why I keep getting hot. I just have to keep a good attitude and take it the Prednisone side effects one day at a time.  I guess it could be worse.  I could end up having to take prednisone for longer than six days. The symptoms do go away once I stop taking the medication…right? Thanks for your response, Pam

Response:

Hi, Pam. Should I say something nice, or tell the truth? My experience with Prednisone is that I hate it more than any other med except for the fact that it takes away the pain in my arthritic knees temporarily. I eat like a horse while I’m on it, in fact I could eat the horse. I gain lots of weight, blow up like a balloon, feel like I’m having one continuous hot flash with my face firey red, and if I’m on it long enough, I get depressed and /or very grouchy. Not a pretty picture. I try never to leave my house while I’m on it because of bad experiences with strangers in stores asking me if I’m having a stroke or heart attack. The good side is that Prednisone gets rid of bronchitis for me when no amount of antibiotics will touch it. I have become wiser with age . I used to delay taking it, try to talk my doctor out of prescribing it, etc. Now when I start with bronchitis, I go on it willingly rather than end up in the hospital  on IV steroids which is even worse.  My wish for you is that you experience none of these effects. But if you do, try to keep the end result in mind. I have a super supportive husband who has been through this with me many times, and that helps a lot. Joan

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Could someone tell me what side effects they have experienced with Prednisone? I was put on 50 milligrams for six days.  One side effect that I am experiencing so far is nervousness.  I have also lost my appetite.  Of course I am on many other medications, so I have no idea which one is effecting my appetite.  The medications I am currently taking is Levaquin, Serevent, Flovent, Rhinocort, Singulair, and Allfen.  I also take Albuterol  inhaler and Xopenex as needed. Fortunately, I haven’t had to take either one since Monday. This is my first experience with Prednisone, and I really hope it is my last. Pam

Response:

I guess I’m really lucky because I have never had any side effects with prednisone.  I guess I should count my blessings.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, Pam. Should I say something nice, or tell the truth? My experience with Prednisone is that I hate it more than any other med except for the fact that it takes away the pain in my arthritic knees temporarily. I eat like a horse while I’m on it, in fact I could eat the horse. I gain lots of weight, blow up like a balloon, feel like I’m having one continuous hot flash with my face firey red, and if I’m on it long enough, I get depressed and /or very grouchy. Not a pretty picture. I try never to leave my house while I’m on it because of bad experiences with strangers in stores asking me if I’m having a stroke or heart attack. The good side is that Prednisone gets rid of bronchitis for me when no amount of antibiotics will touch it. I have become wiser with age . I used to delay taking it, try to talk my doctor out of prescribing it, etc. Now when I start with bronchitis, I go on it willingly rather than end up in the hospital  on IV steroids which is even worse.  My wish for you is that you experience none of these effects. But if you do, try to keep the end result in mind. I have a super supportive husband who has been through this with me many times, and that helps a lot. Joan Could someone tell me what side effects they have experienced with Prednisone? I was put on 50 milligrams for six days.  One side effect that I am experiencing so far is nervousness.  I have also lost my appetite.  Of course I am on many other medications, so I have no idea which one is effecting my appetite.  The medications I am currently taking is Levaquin, Serevent, Flovent, Rhinocort, Singulair, and Allfen.  I also take Albuterol inhaler and Xopenex as needed. Fortunately, I haven’t had to take either one since Monday. This is my first experience with Prednisone, and I really hope it is my last. Pam

Response:

Question:

I would go to  the doctor…that is how my asthma started out.  My arms and legs go numb when I am having breathing problems.  In fact, I can feel my hands and feet contact.  It’s  a strange feeling. Pam

Response:

Alicia; please get evaluated by a competent physician. You really don’t want to be away at school and find yourself in deep trouble. I was in that exact situation many years ago, albeit that asthma counter measures were much less sophisticated then than they are today; you still don’t want to find out how good emergency care MIGHT be. If you were my daughter, I’d recommend the very same thing. Please take care of yourself now before starting school.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have just recently started to have breathing problems, mostly triggered by chemicals.  I have always had allergies but never trouble breathing before.  When I am next to someone with perfume or in a newly renovated building, etc. I feel spaced out and it gets hard to breath. If I don’t get out of there then it feels like my throat is closing up and my fingers and hands start to ache like they’re not getting enough circulation to them.  If I still don’t get away I start coughing uncontrollably, become faint, and have to take oxygen to start breathing normally again.  Is this asthma? I already have 2 HEPA air filters, anti-histamine tablets, some oxygen and a stripped-down room from my previous allergies, but should a get one of those peak flow thingies?  Would it be helpful to me?  I don’t want meds because since chemicals are what bothers me so I’m afraid they’d make me worse, and usually I’m fine.  But I hope this isn’t a bad trend because the frequency of my breathing problems has been increasing, especially since I started work in not-so-good air.  I’m also going to college in the fall so I’m nervous about what the air there will do to me (time to pack up those air filters…).  I’m also utilizing some alternative medicine treatments that have helped *tremendously* with my tolerance to allergens (but I don’t want to get into a fight about how they’re unscientific). Well, thanks for reading! Alicia

Response:

I have just recently started to have breathing problems, mostly triggered by chemicals.  I have always had allergies but never trouble breathing before.  When I am next to someone with perfume or in a newly renovated building, etc. I feel spaced out and it gets hard to breath. If I don’t get out of there then it feels like my throat is closing up and my fingers and hands start to ache like they’re not getting enough circulation to them.  If I still don’t get away I start coughing uncontrollably, become faint, and have to take oxygen to start breathing normally again.  Is this asthma? I already have 2 HEPA air filters, anti-histamine tablets, some oxygen and a stripped-down room from my previous allergies, but should a get one of those peak flow thingies?  Would it be helpful to me?  I don’t want meds because since chemicals are what bothers me so I’m afraid they’d make me worse, and usually I’m fine.  But I hope this isn’t a bad trend because the frequency of my breathing problems has been increasing, especially since I started work in not-so-good air.  I’m also going to college in the fall so I’m nervous about what the air there will do to me (time to pack up those air filters…).  I’m also utilizing some alternative medicine treatments that have helped *tremendously* with my tolerance to allergens (but I don’t want to get into a fight about how they’re unscientific). Well, thanks for reading! Alicia

Response:

Question:

Are you taking meds for the asthma?  

Yes, and thanks to those I cannot take the adhd meds. It’s not getting any better either. Despite the fact that I’ve moved to a cleaner environment and have been taking allergy shots for the past several months.I can’t get a job anywhere because people are smoking inside or there’s some other problem with air quality, and I’m tired. Just exhausted and unmotivated. Depression, anxiety, restlessness and asthma have to be about the worst combo of any type of problems out there. But who am I to say. I just know that I feel like death on burnt toast. But this is *hardly* the worst of my problems right now. I’m still shocked that the world is such a shitty place and keeps getting worse. I shouldn’t be surprised, but the events of the past few months are just unbelievable. People really *are* heartless and cruel. The world really *is* out to stomp me into oblivion. Please know that we all care and are worried about you.

Thanks. Too bad the people who are destroying me and my life don’t feel the same.

Response:

Hi Jen, I am sorry you are in such a bummed out mood.  I wish I could just hug you and sit and listen to you and do the uh-huh thing cause I do understand. I’m sorry you had a nightmare and that you were alone when it happened.   That has to be the worst. Are you taking meds for the asthma?  I know how crummy asthma can be my son has it very bad. Please know that we all care and are worried about you. love and hugs, nessa First I had a nightmare and then I was awake for the last two hours coming up with a long, long rant. I just don’t have the motivation to write the whole thing down, so I’ve shortened it to a few lines: I’m sick of the world punishing me for things that are not my fault. I’m sick of anxiety so bad that my stomach hurts and I have nightmares. I’m sick of all the fu***** noise in my head. I’m sick of asthma. I’m sick of everything and everyone. I hate and I hurt and it only gets worse as time goes on.

– nessa — If a person with multiple personalities threatens to commit suicide,   is it a hostage situation?

Response:

Sh*t..what can I say. First of all I hope things do get better Well, I can share some of your frustrations anyway: ADD, Asthma, Depression, and also the lack of sleep and the constant crap going through my head. Of course I wish to say something witty to make you smile and all, but I just can’t get myself to believe in any of that. If you are like myself this has been going on your whole life and just seems to get worse. I have no miracle cure or even any good advice, just someone to talk to if you want it. Take Care…. *from the outside looking in* * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

I’m sick of the world punishing me for things that are not my fault. I’m sick of anxiety so bad that my stomach hurts and I have nightmares. I’m sick of all the fu***** noise in my head. I’m sick of asthma. I’m sick of everything and everyone. I hate and I hurt and it only gets worse as time goes on.

Jen, are you on meds?  It sounds like clinical depression.  You don’t have to live like this – please go see a doctor. Hope you’re feeling better soon. *star* Don’t litter – spay or neuter your pet Before you buy.

Response:

Hey! I know how you feel! It’s tough having a brain like ours huh? Hope you are ok! Vince

Response:

Hi, I also know exactly what you mean. My ADD is very much like yours, I think. I know what you mean about the noise in your head. My brain buzzes and buzzes – half formed thoughts that never seem to solidify to *make* anything; ideas that I can never actually grab hold of and express. I once made the mistake of trying to explain this to a psychiatrist – a typical British psychiatrist who had either never heard of ADHD, or didn’t believe it existed. He misunderstood me, and thought I was saying I heard voices! The truth is, the only voices I hear are my own. I just wish my brain had an off-switch. — Anna H. "Who’d have thought that being normal would be so troublesome" Ardal O’Hanlon

Response:

First I had a nightmare and then I was awake for the last two hours coming up with a long, long rant. I just don’t have the motivation to write the whole thing down, so I’ve shortened it to a few lines: I’m sick of the world punishing me for things that are not my fault. I’m sick of anxiety so bad that my stomach hurts and I have nightmares. I’m sick of all the fu***** noise in my head. I’m sick of asthma. I’m sick of everything and everyone. I hate and I hurt and it only gets worse as time goes on.

Response:

Question:

J. Clarke says I see.  So your solution to the problem is to throw computers at it.  And so kids who have problems with social interactions become even more isolated.  

100% on target.  Perfectly describes my initial intention in the workplace a _very_ long time ago.   Brilliant.  Just brilliant.  And incidentally, how does using the tendency of computers to activated the hyperfocussed state in ADHD children in order to keep them studying help them deal with issues like managing their time and keeping track of their belongings, which are the sorts of areas in which people with ADHD have real problems–book learning is a secondary issue.

In a nutshell, these are the core issues.  BTW, this is why I sometimes take issue with people who concentrate on providing medication for school hours, but not evenings, weekends, and vacations.   Actually, the NIH Consensus Statement concluded that short term trials of stimulants do not normalize the entire range of behavior problems. "Of concern are the consistent findings that despite the improvement of core symptoms, there is little improvement in academic achievement or social skills."  I’m sure people have all kinds of anecdotal evidence to dispute this.  I am just quoting what is available from studies at this time.

You might be on to something.  Coaching or cognitive therapy might be needed in _addition_ to medication.  As regards anecdotal evidence: in my case, the non-medication methods have _never_ given me any effective, consistent, permanent help in social skills, organization, you name it … As far as my comment about using computers, it is just my opinion.  My thoughts are that if less time was spent by teachers on teaching the academics, where  I believe a computer could be a good substitute in some cases, more time could be spent on teaching those other skills that you mention.   A lot of kids need the benefit of one on one instruction.  I think good computer programs can simulate this.

Only if it is a _very_ good program and able to identify the specific cognitive deficits and adapt the teaching strategy to the specific student.  Such a program would need a way to analyze the _wrong_ answers, correlate all the answers (both right and wrong) and then apply instruction to fill the learning gap.  IMNSHO, that kind of program would be about 10x larger than one without all of those feedback mechanisms.   Are such programs available?  What would they cost?   Julie

– Martin G. Diehl I am what I am.  All opinions expressed within are strictly my own.

Response:

As far as my comment about using computers, it is just my opinion.  My thoughts are that if less time was spent by teachers on teaching the academics, where  I believe a computer could be a good substitute in some cases, more time could be spent on teaching those other skills that you mention.  A lot of kids need the benefit of one on one instruction.  I think good computer programs can simulate this.

If it were only that easy!  Sigh….  My ADHD third-grader is in a program called Project C.H.I.L.D.  The concept is Computers Helping Independant Learning and Development-meaning that computers are a major part of the curriculm, as well as hands on manipulatives.  And yet my son is still having problems associated with his impulsiveness.  He does have a computer at home as well, buthis biggest problem in school is not the academics(yes, he is one of those in the gifted program), but in social skills.  He is such a loner, that my best freind has said that she has this vision of my son as an adult, locked in a closet somewhere with a computer, solving all of the worlds problems.  The worst of it is, that I too can see that.  I would much rather him have at least a few freinds. Buny One size does not fit all, heck, one size don’t even fit most!

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – As far as my comment about using computers, it is just my opinion.  My thoughts are that if less time was spent by teachers on teaching the academics, where  I believe a computer could be a good substitute in some cases, more time could be spent on teaching those other skills that you mention.  A lot of kids need the benefit of one on one instruction.  I think good computer programs can simulate this. If it were only that easy!  Sigh….  My ADHD third-grader is in a program called Project C.H.I.L.D.  The concept is Computers Helping Independant Learning and Development-meaning that computers are a major part of the curriculm, as well as hands on manipulatives.  And yet my son is still having problems associated with his impulsiveness.  He does have a computer at home as well, buthis biggest problem in school is not the academics(yes, he is one of those in the gifted program), but in social skills.  He is such a loner, that my best freind has said that she has this vision of my son as an adult, locked in a closet somewhere with a computer, solving all of the worlds problems.  The worst of it is, that I too can see that.  I would much rather him have at least a few freinds. Buny One size does not fit all, heck, one size don’t even fit most!

I was considered a ‘loner’ in school. Most of it was because I viewed the other kids as immature. I was completely uninterested in makeup, playing in sports, participating in ‘clubs’ because I found them boring, completely lacking challenge, and altogether unappealing. (I still do to some extent). However, I found several groups of friends that shared my same feelings. I began gaming, role playing games, etc. I started in the Society for Creative Anachronism, a medieval recreation organization, and began attending Science Fiction conventions. My friends were usually 10 to 20 years older than I was (still are) and I found my niche. It’s possible that he may have a problem dealing with children his own age. What hobbies does he have? ~Wendy

Response:

Martin G. Diehl said: Only if it is a _very_ good program and able to identify the specific cognitive deficits and adapt the teaching strategy to the specific student.  Such a program would need a way to analyze the _wrong_ answers, correlate all the answers (both right and wrong) and then apply instruction to fill the learning gap.  IMNSHO, that kind of program would be about 10x larger than one without all of those feedback mechanisms.   Are such programs available?  What would they cost?  

I don’t know about availability or cost, but if a fraction of the money spent on developing video games and advertising were spent on developing educational software, I bet they could come up with some pretty good programs. Julie remove "nospam" to respond via email

Response:

Juliana: Diller’s book has a section on "How the Snake Eats Its Tail: The Dilemma of Too Many Disabled". He notes that "as the criteria for ADD broaden and many more individuals attempt to qualify for special services, those with the most severe and persistent problems may not get the help they need.

Anna: I think I have trouble relating to any of that, as I come from Britain where my condition isn’t even recognised. Far from receiving disabled services, I don’t get *any* help of any kind, even though I could use it. I get no help, no treatment, no recognition for my struggles and I resent that fact. G: What Anna says is true for Hawaii as well.  Diller

Question:

How is Asthma in cats treated?

Response:

I have a cat with asthma, and he is treated with prednisone.  A former vet prescribed prednisolone (which I think is similar).  I’ve read numerous posts on here in the past where these drugs seem to be the treatment of choice (in fact, I’m not sure if there are other treatments — anybody know?  My new vet mentioned some newer treatments, and I’d like to find out more about this).  My cat (Sabra) only gets pills when he is having an attack, but I’ve read here about other cats who had more severe problems and were put on predisone on a daily basis.  From what I know, this can lead to problems down the road, but sometimes is the only choice.  Also, if the cat is allergic and this is causing the asthma, removing potential allergens can help. Any vets out there that can fill in more details on this (especially about newer treatments?) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How is Asthma in cats treated?

Response:

How is Asthma in cats treated?

Response:

I have a cat with asthma, and he is treated with prednisone.  A former vet prescribed prednisolone (which I think is similar).  I’ve read numerous posts on here in the past where these drugs seem to be the treatment of choice (in fact, I’m not sure if there are other treatments — anybody know?  My new vet mentioned some newer treatments, and I’d like to find out more about this).  My cat (Sabra) only gets pills when he is having an attack, but I’ve read here about other cats who had more severe problems and were put on predisone on a daily basis.  From what I know, this can lead to problems down the road, but sometimes is the only choice.  Also, if the cat is allergic and this is causing the asthma, removing potential allergens can help. Any vets out there that can fill in more details on this (especially about newer treatments?) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How is Asthma in cats treated?

Response:

How is Asthma in cats treated?

Response:

I have a cat with asthma, and he is treated with prednisone.  A former vet prescribed prednisolone (which I think is similar).  I’ve read numerous posts on here in the past where these drugs seem to be the treatment of choice (in fact, I’m not sure if there are other treatments — anybody know?  My new vet mentioned some newer treatments, and I’d like to find out more about this).  My cat (Sabra) only gets pills when he is having an attack, but I’ve read here about other cats who had more severe problems and were put on predisone on a daily basis.  From what I know, this can lead to problems down the road, but sometimes is the only choice.  Also, if the cat is allergic and this is causing the asthma, removing potential allergens can help. Any vets out there that can fill in more details on this (especially about newer treatments?) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How is Asthma in cats treated?

Response:

Question:

Chris (and eric), however… While inflammations, such as cold or flu, can last up to months, one shouldn’t ingnore the possilblity of a more severe condition. Particularly, in their breathng. It may not be asthma, but considering the history of the patient, a thorough evaluation is probably warranted. jimi

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Well, here is my story.  When I was very, very young, I had my first asthma attack.  I had asthma attacks about 2 times a month, always at night up until my teenage years.    I know now that they were caused by allergies.  This continued until about the age of 17 or 18 when, almost as if by magic, I never had another problem.   Fast forward to October 1998. I am now 32 years of age. One day, I began to have slight difficulty in taking a deep breath.  I couldn’t seem to take a good deep breath about 50% of the time.  I went to my primary care physician and she diagnosed me with Pleurisy (due to the fact that I had been diagnosed with it about 5 years earlier).  She gave me some anti-inflammatory meds and the problem went away in about a week.  Then, last week, I began to have the same symptoms, so I made an appointment with a different doctor.   After an evaluation and question asking session, the doctor diagnosed me with cold-induced asthma and gave me a prescription for Albuterol (2 puffs, 4 times daily).  The doctor gave me a free sample of this medication and I took my first and second puff in his presence.  Unfortunately, the spray hit the back of my throat both times, due to my inexperience in taking it, and I don’t think it worked. I’ve since taken it again, and it does seem to work, but I now feel jittery.   It is a price I am willing to pay for being able to breathe. Anyway, my questions are:  Is it possible to "outgrow" asthma, like I thought I had?  How is asthma diagnosed?  All I did in the Dr’s office was blow into a tube to measure my exhale power (for lack of a better term).  What I really want to know is, does anyone else here have the same symptoms as I do (the in-ability to take a deep, satisfying breath approx 50% of the time).  The problem hits, and lasts for about a week, then goes away.  It seems that I am able to breathe fine after I wake up in the morning, but as soon as I go outside and breathe the cold air, that’s when the problem occurs (but not all the time, sometimes it occurs when I exercise).  Pardon my stupidity on the subject, it has been a long time since I have had any sort of asthmatic problems.

Many people, as their lungs enlarge in the pubertal growth spurt, have less and less problems with asthma, until the symptoms disappear. However, as you found out, they are not cured; the asthma is in It seems that you have relatively mild asthma, which has readily identifiable triggers, and is easily treated on a symptomatic basis.  As long as you remember to premedicate before going out in the cold or exercising, and protect your lungs from cold air, you should be fine. BTW, the test your doctor did was probably a spirometry, he was matching actual and expected total exhaled lung volume . . . asthmatics usually have a reduced value. Chris Owens – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Eric

Response:

Well, here is my story.  When I was very, very young, I had my first asthma attack.  I had asthma attacks about 2 times a month, always at night up until my teenage years.    I know now that they were caused by allergies.  This continued until about the age of 17 or 18 when, almost as if by magic, I never had another problem.   Fast forward to October 1998. I am now 32 years of age. One day, I began to have slight difficulty in taking a deep breath.  I couldn’t seem to take a good deep breath about 50% of the time.  I went to my primary care physician and she diagnosed me with Pleurisy (due to the fact that I had been diagnosed with it about 5 years earlier).  She gave me some anti-inflammatory meds and the problem went away in about a week.  Then, last week, I began to have the same symptoms, so I made an appointment with a different doctor.   After an evaluation and question asking session, the doctor diagnosed me with cold-induced asthma and gave me a prescription for Albuterol (2 puffs, 4 times daily).  The doctor gave me a free sample of this medication and I took my first and second puff in his presence.  Unfortunately, the spray hit the back of my throat both times, due to my inexperience in taking it, and I don’t think it worked. I’ve since taken it again, and it does seem to work, but I now feel jittery.   It is a price I am willing to pay for being able to breathe. Anyway, my questions are:  Is it possible to "outgrow" asthma, like I thought I had?  How is asthma diagnosed?  All I did in the Dr’s office was blow into a tube to measure my exhale power (for lack of a better term).  What I really want to know is, does anyone else here have the same symptoms as I do (the in-ability to take a deep, satisfying breath approx 50% of the time).  The problem hits, and lasts for about a week, then goes away.  It seems that I am able to breathe fine after I wake up in the morning, but as soon as I go outside and breathe the cold air, that’s when the problem occurs (but not all the time, sometimes it occurs when I exercise).  Pardon my stupidity on the subject, it has been a long time since I have had any sort of asthmatic problems. Eric

Response: