Brittle Asthma
At age 47 I developed hypopituitarism and hypothyroidism, becoming dependent on steroids as I was at risk of addisonian crisis. I developed infection after infection and over the last 2 years have had numerous emergency hospital admissions for potentially life threatening infections. At 57 I was finally seen by a lung function consultant. She did the tests on me and looked at all my blood tests over a few years.
She was able to identify eosinophil levels indicating my own already compromised immune system was attacking healthy cells... I think that's the gist of it. Anyway, I was prescribed a targeted biological therapy by self administered monthly injection. I had the first one 4 days ago and I am a different person. I am not coughing and wheezing and constantly dizzy and short of breath. I can walk further than my driveway and I am unlikely to be another statistic... taken by asthma. I have lost count of how many times I have woken in the resus department or intensive care. I already feel like I have been given another chance to actually live my life. I often wonder if my hypopituitarism and steroid medication has caused all of this. It effects my pancreas as I have reactive hypoglycemia... I make too much insulin. Autoimmune diseases run in my family. I wonder how many others out there have addisonian or have experience of biological treatment.
- you've been on a very challenging journey. It's quite understandable if you are overwhelmed by it all. But it seems you are very strong. You didn't give up and found someone to help. I am so glad you pushed forward and finally found answers. And it's wonderful to hear that only after one month you have improved so much. Such great news. Going through all of that must have been a terrible hardship. I hope you can rest a bit now and enjoy each breath, enjoy each day as it comes. Connecting with others can really help combat the feelings of isolation that often accompany chronic conditions. Many people face similar challenges, and sharing stories can provide support and understanding. I'm so glad you are here in the Asthma community. We truly appreciate you sharing your journey. I hope a few who have experienced similar jump on and share as well. Sending thoughts of healing your way. Rebecca (Team member) @Thank you Thank you so much Rebecca C .it means such a lot to hear from you. I do hope that people out there with similar stories can take away something from mine..For anyone facing Biological therapy I do hope my experience takes the anxiety away.Its not all plain sailing .I spent a quick over night stay in the emergency department
A viral infection had exacerbated my other health condition Addisons
In the words of the medical consultant...."the risk of infection is exacerbated by Biological therapy, but infections can be treated early and Asthma attacks can't" previously would of been so much worse.I read as many stories as I can and realise I am one of the lucky ones xIt's quite courageous to open up and offer some insight into your asthma journey. It does support others and eases the worries they have in similar situations. It's wonderful to hear you the hospital stay was short and that you are on your way to greater health. Being on the right treatment plan with a biological medication seems to working for you. And, yes they definitely can lower your resistance to infection and viruses. Sometimes it's a necessary risk to take. Like you, having been on them for a few years now for another chronic illness, it affects my respiratory system and my risk of exacerbation is high. Taking precautions is best. While there are challenges, there are also moments of hope and luck amidst the struggles. Hoping your holidays are healthy and joyful. Rebecca (team member)
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I am glad to hear that you are also on Biological therapy and that someone else gets my story and can relate to it. It's comforting to me that someone else understands the future challenges but the hope and zedt I have to start living again. I feel so sad for those people who have to struggle on with their own asthma symptoms but hopefully they are not the ones with the very high risk of becoming another statistic .My Respiratory consultant said 3 people in the UK with brittle asthma die each day .Now I have been given a future and am looking forward to Happy Holidays and also a 2 week carribean cruise in January to rest and celebrate life
Happy holidays to you and the community. Good health and happiness in 2025 xxx loua - I truly understand the struggle. I've been using biologics for at least 5 years now. Each one comes with its side effects. But for me they were minor. What's disappointing is that you have to use this one, use that one, and wait to see if they are effective. It can take months to years to find the right one. I tried 4 before my current medication was successful. I too have begun to start living again. It's not all stars and rainbows but my health is improving and days look brighter.
The statistics for those with asthma can be scary. I am sure he wanted to let you know how serious a condition it is, especially those with severe cases.
Sending you joy and peace as you begin to immerse yourself in life again! Enjoy that cruise. Do take precautions and all your meds. Here's a link to an article that has some tips for asthma and traveling. https://asthma.net/video/pack-travel
Wishing you the best. - Rebecca (team member)Thank you so much for the video links and your support. Due to my Nucala injection being due whilst away I have an insulated pouch with has ice pack inserts so the Biological agent survives before I can get it in the fridge. We have decided since its early days we will take the mini wheelchair I have for the airport...it can always carry our cabin luggage . I use a stick but am fiercely independent so I think the luggage will have it but like you say better to be prepared. .Thankyou again
