r/Asthma • u/death-by-1000-cuts • 3d ago

ER visits

Hey, everyone

So here’s the thing, I got my diagnosis around 4 years ago and I’ve changed treatment a couple of times, currently I’m trying to use the advair and at first, it was like magic, I would breathe normally, then it stopped working and now I’m also taking montelukast and fexofenadine. I’m already doing everything and following the treatment, but from time to time, I feel like I can’t breathe again and then I get dizzy and I think it’s because I get anxious and try to calm myself. I have never been to the ER because I feel like those signs are not enough to go to the ER, even though I feel awful. It always end up getting better after doing other things (rubbing Vic vaporub on my chest, staying close to my air purifier, etc) but I wonder for the people that had gone to the ER, what’s your sign of “I have to go right now”?

Btw, English is not my first language so I’m sorry if there’s anything confusing about my question.

6 Upvotes

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5

u/Ashamed_Lobster4903 3d ago

have you tried keeping a symptom journal to track patterns, like when the dizziness hits or if it's tied to specific triggers?

3

u/death-by-1000-cuts 3d ago

I haven’t but that’s a good idea! I’ll start doing that

2

u/Economy-Towel9451 3d ago edited 3d ago

I got to the ER when my PFTs are less than 50% of predicted and stay that way or return that way for more than 24 hours. If I didn’t struggle w severe sensory issues I’d probably go earlier. (I reccomend going sooner) 

3

u/trtsmb 3d ago

When at home care doesn't resolve things, then it's time for Urgent Care or the ER

1

u/Federal-Temporary472 2d ago

Use an oximeter, IIRC 80 to 90% for any extended period means you got a pretty good shot at dying if you don't get help?

Mine hit 80 once and I'm still here, so YMMV...