Asthma with Lupus
I have had a few Asthma episodes in the last two years (try to see a pulmonologist in Covid world. Ugggh). Attacks are not severe enough to be life-threatening but leave my chest really sore and knock me for a loop. Last time was over a month ago. Feeling better today so maybe only a week this time. They put steroids in me. I have osteoporosis after years of steroids and in methotrexate and Plaquenil. Has anyone else dealt with this and have an idea of how to avoid these attacks (which do not seem to have any connection to anything)? Also, has anyone else noticed the new trend of doctors saying panic attacks are the reason for all things post-Covid? I couldn’t breathe. Had severe chest pains. They pumped me with steroids and albuterol. I do not handle that combination well. It caused uncontrolled movements. It looked like an epileptic episode- so doctors decided I was having a panic attack. Can anyone commensurate or add suggestions?
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I am so sorry that you have been going through so much without the support of your doctors! It's draining enough to be living with lupus, plus other conditions, but to not feel listened to by your care team is especially draining and unacceptable. One of our other patient leaders recently wrote an article about her experience living with lupus and asthma. I'll include a link in case you are interested. https://lupus.net/living/developing-asthma. Please know, you are not alone in this. Sadly, it takes so many people living with lupus a long time to find the right team of doctors to take them seriously. I know you said you have been struggling to find a good pulmonologist during the times of COVID. Do you have a rheumatologist you see regularly that you feel listens and supports you? They may be able to offer some insights on what medications to adjust moving forward.
Sendings hugs!
Gabby (team member)Thank you. I do appreciate the article. My rheumatologist is very good but I never know when to go to her and when to go to other specialist. I started when I was in my 20s and I am now almost 60. I am actually blessed to be as healthy as I am. So far nothing life threatening currently. I have sjogrens. Fibromyalgia. Thyroid issues. Rheumatoid arthritis and them of course my original lupus (which may be in remission as some indicators do not show it). Oh yes and after the many years of steroid use osteoporosis. When you write it down it sounds worse than it is. I had doubts in my 20s if I would live past 60. And darn it I think I am going for 70 now!! Only rule I have for doctors is no adding diagnosis without removing one. My dance card is full. Lol. Thank you for your help. May you have a great holiday with as few issues as possible (learned not to say healthy to chronically ill). Sharon
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I am inspired by your strength and amazing outlook! So glad you have a rheumatologist you can rely on! I would suggest asking her about what has been happening and seeing if she can help point you in the right direction. After 40 years you deserve a comprehensive treatment plan that actually works!
wishing you a very happy &
Gabby (team member)
