NWR -Asthma

I have been having a lot of trouble breathing lately, especially when I work out. Tightness in the chest, coughing, all that stuff.
I went to the dr. and she told me she thinks I have exercise induced ashtma. I made an appointment with a pulmonologist to get a real diagnosis. The dr. I saw the other day gave me prescriptions for singulair and albuterol. If I take these meds, will the pulmonologist be able to whatever he needs to accurately give me a diagnosis? I have the appt on Dec. 27. Does anyone know about this stuff?
I should probably call the pulmonologist and ask them, but I thought I'd throw the question out there.

TIA!

I take singulair every day for the past 4 or 5 years and it has been a god send. I have not had a single asthma attack since then ... and I have had asthma since I was 5 years old.

I also take albuterol, but that is only as necessary and I can honestly say it has been a really long time!

If they really think that you have asthma I would recommend taking the medicine - you will see a difference!

That said, it can't hurt the check with the Pulmonary doctor first!

I'd wait to see the pulminologist. I was also diagnosed, first with exercise induced asthma. But then they found out it's all the time. I was put on singular when it first came out, but it didn't work for me. (Everybody is different) Then they put me on Advair. It has been the best thing in my life! (Other than my FH of course)

Some things to help you:

Breathe more through your nose. Your nose warms and moistens the air, which helps. (Cold, dry air is bad)

Cover your mouth and nose with a scarf while you're outside in this freezing weather.

Good luck!

Hi there!

A little advice for you (from a respirtaory therapist!!) Take your albuterol inhaler when you feel like you need it (sounds like you should only need it when exercising) or if you plan on exercising take it just before you work out to prevent the symptoms. It is a short-acting drug and will only be in your system for 4 hours so I would suggest on the day you go to see your doctor make sure you have more then 4 hours from when you take it until your appointment. I don't know how your doctor prescribed it, but I would really only use it as a 'rescue med' meaing just before exercise and when you have symptoms. As for Singulair, that is a 'maintenance med' and I think it would be fine to take the day of your appointment. I do think you should call your pulmonologist and find out what they would prefer. Hope this helps! FM me if you have any other questions about asthma!!!

Megan