Expert: Bailey - 11/16/2006

Question
I am a 26 year old female, non smoker. I have always had a weak immune system, i am sick more than not. I never just get a cold it always turns into bronchitis.
As a child i remember being rushed to the ER time and time again wheezing. i was always told i would grow out of it, no such luck.
I am currently sick for the 3rd time in 2 months!!
I am now on a  predispose for a couple weeks, advair disc 2 x daily, codeine cough syrup every 4 hrs (does no good!!) they have tried that since i was a baby, albuterol as needed and i am now trying singulair.
I might also note my work environment is in surgery so i don't come into contact with things that bother me to often.

I am honestly at my wits end, people always comment on my cough even when i am not sick......walking from the parking lot to the locker room at work always get me.

But right now i am soooo sick and i can not stop coughing and my chest feel soooo tight.....i feel like i need a breathing treatment. when do you recommend them??

Really i am just sick and frustrated and open to any ideas please help!!

Answer
Shannon,
 First thing that comes to mind from your letter is that your medication may have something to do with being ill. I am not sure what predispose is, but I suspect that it is some form of prednisone-A very very powerful steriod. Advair is a combination of Flovent - another steroid, and serevent - a bronchiodialtor. Steriods are very commonly associated with weakened immune systems, ecspecially if you are taking high doses. Serevent has been questioned in relation to asthma fatalities and should be used with caution (Though advair is a commonly prescribed and generally considered to be safe). Cough syrup is also not recommended for people with breathing problems. Often times it is of no help and should be discontinued if it is not helping you.  I am not suggesting that you stop using your medication, but you may want to consider a non-steroid medication if you are often ill. A common one is Atrovent, and is becoming more common in the use of nebulizer breathing treatments in the ER. If you think you need a breathing treatment, it is probably a good idea to go and get one. Go to the ER if you are having moderate-severe breathing difficulty or chest tightness. They also make portable nebulizers which can come in handy during those times that you are feeling ill. These are often more effective than your typical albuterol inhaler and may save you a trip to the ER. I hope you are well again soon.
-Bailey