Expert: Marc Rubin, RPh Asthma Educator - 8/8/2011

Question
Hello, I have been diagnosed with asthma since I was 16. As I been getting older my asthma is slower but surely getting worse.  Right now, im using the ventolin and it used to last me for the year but now I can finish one in 2 months. Im 23 years old, 5’9 and 295 lbs…what should I do?

Answer
Hi Marie,

We are entering ragweed and mold season, the worst time of year for asthmatics. If all you are on as the Ventolin, you need to speak to your physician or allergist to be put on a controller medication to reduce the airway inflammation. They may even want to put you on a steroid pack for a week to get you more quickly under control.

Another issue, I'm certain you have already heard about, is your weight. Not only does the excess weight restrict normal breathing sitting or standing, but also is a crushing weight against your diaphragm while laying down. I'm pretty certain that, when you wake up, you don't feel well rested. That is due directly to your reduced breathing capacity caused by the weight. I know that weight loss is not easy, but it will have a tremendous improvement on your overall quality of life. Considering the amount is excess, you may be a candidate for a lap-band procedure for weight reduction. There are reported cases of adult onset diabetics no longer needing meds after the procedure and subsequent weight loss. Something to think about.

Do you have any pets around?

In my bio are a list of questions I ask of patients in order to get a clearer picture of their situation. Please review this, and get back to me with the answers. This way I'll be better informed to make a clearer direction for your therapy.

Sincerely,

Marc