Expert: Marc Rubin, RPh Asthma Educator - 12/10/2008

Question
Hello Kathleen,
I am 38 years old; I was diagnosed with asthma about ten years ago, and have lived with numerous allergies most of my life.  Last year, I had an anaphylactic response to penicillin.  Unfortunately, when I called my doctor's office to tell them I felt my throat was closing, their answer was simply to call in a new drug to my pharmacy for me to take.  I had a terrible night, neither my husband nor I realizing exactly how dangerous my situation was, thinking it was "just" an allergic reaction.  For several weeks I battled severe laryngitis, bronchitis, and a cough which I found out much later was a partially collapsed lung.  

My lung has never felt the same.  I have a tight feeling in it, and, usually first thing in the morning but any time I have been at rest, taking a deep breath makes it feel like it is being stretched, as if the tissue is too tight in one spot.  

I am wondering if you can give me more information about the damage to my lung.  I have never been given much information, even once I had a diagnosis from an MD.  Will these sensations go away and the lung feel normal again?  Am I more inclined to infection in that lung now?  Is there anything else I should know, or anything I should tell medical practitioners when I visit?

Any help will be appreciated.

Regards,
Suzanna

Answer
Hi Suzanna,

First, find yourself a new physician, one that believes that to deliver the best quality health care you need to form a partnership with the patient, and provide education.

Second, get yourself into seeing an allergy specialist for a complete evaluation ( Actually, do this first, then ask for guidance to find a general practitioner who has an interest in asthma ). For help finding a specialist, go to http://www.aaaai.org/physref/

Until you have been properly evaluated, it would be inappropriate for me to provide you with any expectations. Once you have gone through the process, I'd be more than happy to guide you.

Good luck, and may the New Year bring you better health ( and better health care!).

Sincerely,

Marc