Categories: Exercise Asthma

Question:

This post not CC’d by email >I don’t currently take any BP readings unless for some reason I think it >might be out of whack.  I’ve had slightly high BP since my mid 20’s.  It >seems to be very well controlled with medication and my current Dr. sees no >reason for me to monitor it at home on a regular basis.  This was not always >so.  When I was going to the military facility in Cape Cod, the Dr. I saw >wanted me to keep a log of my BP readings.  He suggested twice daily random >readings, but I often did more readings just for the heck of it.  Had a lot >of time on my hands and there’s not much to do in Cape Cod, especially in >the winter!  *L*

G’day G’day Julie,   The seasons of our lives, eh? >What I learned is that I could take reading after reading repeatedly, and >get entirely different numbers.  I also learned that I almost always got >lower readings at home.  Usually low enough to be well below normal.  But I >also studied up on taking the readings and when I did them at home, I did >everything the way it is supposed to be done.  For one thing, I made sure to >get a cuff that was large enough to fit well around my upper arm.  If the >cuff is too small (or too large) you’ll get a false reading.  I can’t tell >you how many times I’ve been to a new Dr. and they’ve used the standard cuff >on me.  They will then get a funny look on their face, then go get the >larger cuff.  They always get a better reading then.  My arms are not fat, >but they are very muscular and for that reason, I need the larger cuff. >Other things that can affect your reading are talking, eating, drinking, and >activity.  It’s best not to have anything to eat or drink immediately before >taking a reading and to sit still for 5 minutes before taking a reading.

The pamphlet suggests it is a bad idea to take a reading when one needs to go for a pee.  Very understandable. >Take good deep breaths while doing the reading.  I’ve found that shallow >breaths or holding your breath can give you a higher reading.  This is one >reason why my readings are always higher at the Drs. office.  I hate having >that cuff squeezing my arm.  I’m fine to do it to myself, but I dislike >having anyone else do it to me.  I get sort of panicky.  I think this is >because I once had a nurse pump the cuff up on my arm, then leave the room >to talk on the phone to her boyfriend.  She left me like that for about 5 >minutes.  I was much younger then and didn’t know what to do.  I thought if >I took the cuff off I might break it or something, so I sat there suffering >and seething.  Needless to say, my reading was quite high then!

It sure makes a difference getting the right nurse or getting one on a good day. >And at one point, my eye Dr. feared I had glaucoma.  They had gotten a new >machine at their office that puffs air into the center of your eye to check >the pressure.  The person doing it wasn’t doing it right.  If done right, it >doesn’t hurt.  But she kept missing the center of my eye and that not only >hurt, but dried my eyes out.  I was so tense from that they couldn’t get a >decent reading.  The Dr. then did an experiment.  He tested my BP using an >arm cuff.  It was normal.  He then seated me at the machine and tested it >again.  It went WAY high!  He also did the old fashioned glaucoma test where >the eye is numbed with cocaine and a needle is inserted to check the >pressure.  No glaucoma.

Good thing the doctor had the smarts to figure out what might have been happening, the embedded strategy to test out his hypothesis and achieve the desired result by an alternative route. >Also, when I was going to the Dr. in Cape Cod, they guy who often did the BP >tests was really chatty.  He was a really nice guy and had just come from >the area where I grew up.  So he would strike up a conversation with me >about the Seattle area.  This was nice, but I would get excited in talking >to him, and my BP would go up.  I kept telling him that it’s best not to >talk during a reading and that I feared that our conversations were giving >me higher readings.  So he agreed that the next time I came in, he would let >someone else do my BP.  Sure enough, I got a decent reading.

Conversation with the dogs is a bit limited.  <grin> >So while I know all these things, it does pose some questions in my mind. >Most of us do not spend our days sitting around breathing deeply and doing >nothing.  We have conversations.  We get excited.  We get tense and stressed >out.  We eat, exercise, etc.  In fact, we probably spend most of our day >doing those things instead of sitting around attempting to relax.  So it >almost seems better to me to go for a random reading without all the prep >stuff.

My thoughts go along similar lines.  The situation seems roughly analogous to fasting blood glucose and post prandial testing.  At one time doctors were only interested in fasting blood glucose.  Then someone pursued the idea that peak values after meals (1 hour) and recovery after meals (2 hour) might be important.  Of course a lot of literature was generated along the way.   Another analogous situation might be homocysteine testing.   There are two forms fasting and methionine challenge testing. The challenge testing is twice as like to predict future problems. >Another thing I’ve been told is that some people have a problem with BP that >relates to sitting, standing or lying down.  Their BP might be fine for most >of the day, but might go too high or too low when changing positions.  For >that reason, it’s a good idea to take occasional tests in different >positions and immediately after changing positions. >– >Type 2 >http://users.bestweb.net/~jbove/

Thanks Julie,    For interest sake I may look at post exercise states to see if biofeedback is applicable. — Quentin Grady       ^  ^  / New Zealand,       >#,#< [                     / /     "… and the blind dog was leading." http://homepages.paradise.net.nz/quentin

Response:

This post not CC’d by email >I’m not going to read all the responses but maybe others have said >what I’ll say. >I would think the best way would be to take 3 measurements and use the >median value.  (not the average)  That helps with blips in >experimental error

Thanks Marco.    The median is certainly simple to discover. — Quentin Grady       ^  ^  / New Zealand,       >#,#< [                     / /     "… and the blind dog was leading." http://homepages.paradise.net.nz/quentin

Response:

This post not CC’d by email >Hi Quentin, >Considerable swings in BP during the day and night are normal. A pain >attack, fear, scare, intercourse can spike BP to over 160 mmHG. When relaxed >and sleeping it can go down to 60. Diastolic can go to 30 during sleep. >I measure BP first thing every morning, together with BG and weight and keep >records, of course. Every month I average the BP( 120/65). >I measure once, sitting down, left arm supported at heart level, both feet >flat on the ground and as relaxed as possible. >That’s what the doc told me to do.

G’day G’day Fred,   That sounds reasonable. >When I go for a check up, at the sight of a white coat, systolic BP goes to >140-150, but diastolic remains around 60-70.

I am going to run courses on curing white coat phobia one day.   Looks like a money spinner.   <grin. >In May and June I had a very stressful time. Then my BP was 140-150-160 in >the morning. >Contrary to what I’ve read, I can tell most of the time when my BP is >elevated. By concentrating and relaxing I can lower my BP. It takes about >two minutes. I could not do it when I was stressed out in May and June. >When I’m at the doctors they measure so quickly that I don’t have chance to >get in a comfortable position and relax. Consequently, the nurse tells me I >have elevated BP. To the doctor I show my tables and all gets settled.

Way to go.  For me the most important thing may be to have a routine for inducing the relaxation response throughout the day.  The body isn’t going to be affected by what happens with testing at the doctors, the time period is too short to be significant.   >Good luck >Fred Henzi

– Quentin Grady       ^  ^  / New Zealand,       >#,#< [                     / /     "… and the blind dog was leading." http://homepages.paradise.net.nz/quentin

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This post not CC’d by email >I take my blood pressure at the free machines sited in many U.S. >department stores.  I stop for a bit while shopping and test. > AFAIK,  the criteria for a meaningful b.p. test is a "relaxed", >"resting" test with the sensor at heart level.   I think I once read >that the patient should sit quietly for 10 minutes before taking the >test. > I find that running around the store does not relax or rest me.   My >first reading will be high, usually 140-145, then successive readings >will decay to some constant value.   (My low-dose ARB seems to be >holding me between 110 and 120.)

LOL G’day G’day Al,  You can take the engineer out of the engineering but you can’t the engineering out of the engineer.  I had this mental picture of you drawing a decay curve and calculating the various decay constants. >Thus, I sit at the machine repeating the test until it seems to have   >decayed to some stable value.  Sometimes that calls for 3 tests, >sometimes 5 or more. > I also find that low blood sugar elevates b.p.  

Now that is interesting. Sort of makes sense.  Not enough blood glucose getting to the brain … rev up the blood pressure.   >I try to schedule a >b.p. test for normal to high bG.   This relationship is sometimes >humorous in that an anomalous b.p. is sometimes my first warning of a >dropping bG.

Ah so there IS feedback.  <grin>   > I have heard that the lie-down then sit-up/stand-up b.p. ratio is an >indicator of vascular/arterial health.  Unfortunately,  I don’t trust >the sites I have found so far and I haven’t looked too hard for a >reputable site.  If I ever break down and buy a home testing machine, >I probably will get serious about such tests.

Hope you never break down or up for that matter.   >Regards >  Old Al (Insulin injector who often experiences bG lower than >comfortable)

Best wishes and thanks.  I always look forward to your replies. — Quentin Grady       ^  ^  / New Zealand,       >#,#< [                     / /     "… and the blind dog was leading." http://homepages.paradise.net.nz/quentin

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: Hi : I am a participant in the Anglo Scandinavian Coronary Outcomes Trial : (ASCOT).  When I go to the centre for my 6 monthly checks they take my BP 3 : times and average the results. : Douglas Three times, one right after the other or at three different times during the examination?  I ask, because I have been told not to test twice on the same arm right after each other as I will give a lower reading on the second est because of something that hapens to the arteries.  Sorry, I don’t remember what the something is Wendy  

Response:

Hi I am a participant in the Anglo Scandinavian Coronary Outcomes Trial (ASCOT).  When I go to the centre for my 6 monthly checks they take my BP 3 times and average the results. Douglas

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> G’day G’day Folks, >   Some days it is like being born again.  One discovers little > challenges like gravity … unless one laughs at oneself and figures > one already knows the answer in another context or other people have > solved the problem before one even knew the current one existed. > OK, so looking at a similar context in which there is already a > solution. > When measuring peak flow rates for asthma one measures the best of > three ie the highest reading.  That seems reasonable. It measures what > one’s lungs CAN do. The assumption is the other lower readings arose > from something like mistiming the puff. > Is the blood pressure situation truly analogous? > Are we looking for the best reading in the blood pressure case? > OK, so eliciting what others already know about the situation. > For those of you who regularly take blood pressure readings, > 1.  How many readings do you take at one session? > 2.  Which one, if any, do you record? > 3.  What’s the rationale behind your strategy? > Thanks, > — > Quentin Grady       ^  ^  / > New Zealand,       >#,#< [ >                     / / > "… and the blind dog was leading." > http://homepages.paradise.net.nz/quentin

Response:

I’m not going to read all the responses but maybe others have said what I’ll say. I would think the best way would be to take 3 measurements and use the median value.  (not the average)  That helps with blips in experimental error – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >G’day G’day Folks, >  Some days it is like being born again.  One discovers little >challenges like gravity … unless one laughs at oneself and figures >one already knows the answer in another context or other people have >solved the problem before one even knew the current one existed.   >OK, so looking at a similar context in which there is already a >solution. >When measuring peak flow rates for asthma one measures the best of >three ie the highest reading.  That seems reasonable. It measures what >one’s lungs CAN do. The assumption is the other lower readings arose >from something like mistiming the puff.   >Is the blood pressure situation truly analogous? >Are we looking for the best reading in the blood pressure case? >OK, so eliciting what others already know about the situation. >For those of you who regularly take blood pressure readings, >1.  How many readings do you take at one session? >2.  Which one, if any, do you record? >3.  What’s the rationale behind your strategy?   >Thanks,

Response:

Hello Quentin, I test to make sure that it is staying where it should be under certain conditions.  Like I mentioned, I don’t do this all of the time.  I just want to make sure it is not going really high if I am under more stress than normal.  I usually just go by what the doctors readings are.  I see him every 6 months.  If my bp is within normal range when I go in for my appts., then I am fairly certain that I am ok as that is a stressful situation. The 120/70 is with meds.  I have been taking a bp med for quite a few years now. Blood pressure varies so much, that I am not concerned with it unless it goes up under stressful situations and stays up.   Best, Dot Type 2  Diag 8/2001 – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -><When I check at home, I usually only check it in the mornings and the >evenings (once each time).  I do not check it all of the time, but at >least once or twice a month I have a period of time where I keep tabs on it to make sure the bp med is still working (maybe 5 days in a row).  I do record the readings and other specifics (under stress, sick, etc.). >I am probably not what you would consider a "regular" checker as I do >not check it everyday.> >G’day G’day Dot, > I reckon that is about the best strategy one can have.  You do it >when you use the results to learn something from.  Raw data by itself >is pretty pointless.  Its changing behaviour in the right direction >that matter. ><My bp ususally runs around 120/70.> >Which leads me to wonder why you test.  Is the 120/70 with meds? >Best wishes, >Best, >Dot >Type 2  Diag 8/2001

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This post not CC’d by email >He came in about 10 mins later,  and tested me in sitting >position. >5. Told to lie down, tested again. >6. Told to stand on the floor, tested again.

G’day G’day Annette,  Thanks for all the information.   There has been research done that advocated comparing lying down and standing up value.  The conclusion the researchers reached was that they could detect FUTURE high blood pressure risk.  They were able to recognise people who would soon show up with high blood pressure with a reasonable degree of accuracy.  Where I’d find the paper now I don’t know. Best wishes, — Quentin Grady       ^  ^  / New Zealand,       >#,#< [                     / /     "… and the blind dog was leading." http://homepages.paradise.net.nz/quentin

Response:

Hi Quentin, Considerable swings in BP during the day and night are normal. A pain attack, fear, scare, intercourse can spike BP to over 160 mmHG. When relaxed and sleeping it can go down to 60. Diastolic can go to 30 during sleep. I measure BP first thing every morning, together with BG and weight and keep records, of course. Every month I average the BP( 120/65). I measure once, sitting down, left arm supported at heart level, both feet flat on the ground and as relaxed as possible. That’s what the doc told me to do. When I go for a check up, at the sight of a white coat, systolic BP goes to 140-150, but diastolic remains around 60-70. In May and June I had a very stressful time. Then my BP was 140-150-160 in the morning. Contrary to what I’ve read, I can tell most of the time when my BP is elevated. By concentrating and relaxing I can lower my BP. It takes about two minutes. I could not do it when I was stressed out in May and June. When I’m at the doctors they measure so quickly that I don’t have chance to get in a comfortable position and relax. Consequently, the nurse tells me I have elevated BP. To the doctor I show my tables and all gets settled. Good luck Fred Henzi . – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Is the blood pressure situation truly analogous? > Are we looking for the best reading in the blood pressure case? > OK, so eliciting what others already know about the situation. > For those of you who regularly take blood pressure readings, > 1.  How many readings do you take at one session? > 2.  Which one, if any, do you record? > 3.  What’s the rationale behind your strategy? > Thanks, > — > Quentin Grady       ^  ^  / > New Zealand,       >#,#< [ >                     / / > "… and the blind dog was leading." > http://homepages.paradise.net.nz/quentin

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > G’day G’day Folks, >   Some days it is like being born again.  One discovers little > challenges like gravity … unless one laughs at oneself and figures > one already knows the answer in another context or other people have > solved the problem before one even knew the current one existed.   > OK, so looking at a similar context in which there is already a > solution. > When measuring peak flow rates for asthma one measures the best of > three ie the highest reading.  That seems reasonable. It measures what > one’s lungs CAN do. The assumption is the other lower readings arose > from something like mistiming the puff.   > Is the blood pressure situation truly analogous? > Are we looking for the best reading in the blood pressure case? > OK, so eliciting what others already know about the situation. > For those of you who regularly take blood pressure readings, > 1.  How many readings do you take at one session? > 2.  Which one, if any, do you record? > 3.  What’s the rationale behind your strategy?   > Thanks,

 I take my blood pressure at the free machines sited in many U.S. department stores.  I stop for a bit while shopping and test.  AFAIK,  the criteria for a meaningful b.p. test is a "relaxed", "resting" test with the sensor at heart level.   I think I once read that the patient should sit quietly for 10 minutes before taking the test.  I find that running around the store does not relax or rest me.   My first reading will be high, usually 140-145, then successive readings will decay to some constant value.   (My low-dose ARB seems to be holding me between 110 and 120.) Thus, I sit at the machine repeating the test until it seems to have   decayed to some stable value.  Sometimes that calls for 3 tests, sometimes 5 or more.  I also find that low blood sugar elevates b.p.  I try to schedule a b.p. test for normal to high bG.   This relationship is sometimes humorous in that an anomalous b.p. is sometimes my first warning of a dropping bG.  I have heard that the lie-down then sit-up/stand-up b.p. ratio is an indicator of vascular/arterial health.  Unfortunately,  I don’t trust the sites I have found so far and I haven’t looked too hard for a reputable site.  If I ever break down and buy a home testing machine, I probably will get serious about such tests. Regards   Old Al (Insulin injector who often experiences bG lower than comfortable)

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> G’day G’day Folks, >   Some days it is like being born again.  One discovers little > challenges like gravity … unless one laughs at oneself and figures > one already knows the answer in another context or other people have > solved the problem before one even knew the current one existed. > OK, so looking at a similar context in which there is already a > solution. > When measuring peak flow rates for asthma one measures the best of > three ie the highest reading.  That seems reasonable. It measures what > one’s lungs CAN do. The assumption is the other lower readings arose > from something like mistiming the puff. > Is the blood pressure situation truly analogous? > Are we looking for the best reading in the blood pressure case?

Hi there Quentin, I don’t believe it is analogous.  Or at least, other than that an extremely low or high reading would be considered significant. Because then either there is something wrong with the equipment/method of use, or there is something seriously wrong with the patient!  I know this sounds obvious, but most doctors are pretty confidant about their equipment and it’s correct usage, because they are doing these test all the time, whereas with home testing one can’t be so sure. OTOH, for some conditions, the time of day, or other conditions at the time the test is done may be relevant.  Most doctor’s tests are done during normal office hours through the day.  One may be physically or emotionally stressed, just eaten, or relaxed and at ease.  Certainly one is advised not to test with a full bladder! Tests at night or out-of-hours are not common unless one is hospitalised or seriously ill anyway.  So home testing can reveal some interesting and significant readings that may not be detected otherwise. > OK, so eliciting what others already know about the situation. > For those of you who regularly take blood pressure readings, > 1.  How many readings do you take at one session?

Usually only one, but sometimes twice, I do one and my husband does one.  If the readings are pretty close, (and they usually are), then I have reasonable confidence in the accuracy. > 2.  Which one, if any, do you record?

All readings, noting time of day and other factors.  If there is a marked difference, I wait an hour and do another set.  > 3.  What’s the rationale behind your strategy? A check on the accuracy, especially in respect of the sensitivity of the machine, and my correct usage. Actually, after a while, as I became more experienced, I usually only did it once per session. Other earlier posts talked about things that can affect readings, like White Coat Syndrome, for example. FWIW, one medical site made a comment about that particular situation, and noted that if the reading is unacceptably high, it is still considered relevant, because it shows that BP can rise to dangerous levels if the person is stressed – NOT GOOD! I found it interesting that when I saw a cardio specialist, he tested my BP at 6 times during the course of the visit to his office. 1. Immediately on arrival (he instructed the nurse to do it).  Then I waited some time  before being called in. 2. Once I was seated in the office. 3. After chatting about my medical history, looking at test results etc (about 1/2 hr later). 4. Told to go into next room, remove top clothing etc, and sit on the examining table – he would be a little time, he said, so just relax.  He came in about 10 mins later,  and tested me in sitting position. 5. Told to lie down, tested again. 6. Told to stand on the floor, tested again. All readings were noted down without comment.  I have no idea what conclusions or method of analysis were used.  I now kind of wish I’d asked, but he seemed pretty pre-occupied, and I didn’t like to interrupt.  He studied them for some time in silence, with no comment, before indicating what further tests he wanted me to undergo. At home, I used to test about 4 times a day, on first rising, mid-afternoon, early evening and late (around midnight).  There was a consistant record of dangerously high readings from around 11.0 pm to 3 am.  The rest of the time, readings were only "slightly" elevated,  and although this wasn’t too good, and I WAS prescibed medicaion, there was no cause for alarm.  Since I was also getting chest pain late at night, when I reported my results of the tests to my GP, he considered this serious enough to warrant immediate investigation, and referred me accordingly.  Earlier complalnts re the chest pain alone had been ignored. I think that home testing is a bit like  testing bg, trends and patterns over a period of time can reveal some interesting information.  Either re-assurance that there is nothing seriously wrong, or there is something that should be investigated further. I hope this is some help by adding more anecdotal data to your file! Annette — Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).

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This post not CC’d by email – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Hello Quentin, >At the doctors office it is taken once by the nurse and most doctors >will take it again when you are in the room with him/her.  The doctor >takes it again to see if it has gone "up" any.  If it has, then that >means when you are stressed (most are when seeing the doctor) and that >your bp med may not be working that well.  It means you have white coat >hypertension, which means that anytime you are stressed, your bp is >going up even when on meds.  If it goes too high, they will usually end >up changing the particular med that you on.  Most will give it at least >one more visit before they do that, though.  At least this is what I >have found out. >When I check at home, I usually only check it in the mornings and the >evenings (once each time).  I do not check it all of the time, but at >least once or twice a month I have a period of time where I keep tabs on >it to make sure the bp med is still working (maybe 5 days in a row).  I >do record the readings and other specifics (under stress, sick, etc.). >I am probably not what you would consider a "regular" checker as I do >not check it everyday.

G’day G’day Dot,  I reckon that is about the best strategy one can have.  You do it when you use the results to learn something from.  Raw data by itself is pretty pointless.  Its changing behaviour in the right direction that matter. >My bp ususally runs around 120/70.

Which leads me to wonder why you test.  Is the 120/70 with meds? Best wishes, >Best, >Dot >Type 2  Diag 8/2001

– Quentin Grady       ^  ^  / New Zealand,       >#,#< [                     / /     "… and the blind dog was leading." http://homepages.paradise.net.nz/quentin

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> IF you test both arms seriatum and there is a sicnificant difference betwen them, soemthing is wrong, possibly a blockage somewhere.

This is a good point. My brother-in-law was the first person I heard mention this. He always gets a higher reading on his right arm than his left. Let say you go to the doctor’s office and take your meter with you to try and test their comparability – yours on one arm and the doctors on the other. You really might not prove anything. Lada da da! :) Frank

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This post not CC’d by email > IF you test both arms seriatum and there is a sicnificant difference betwen them, soemthing is wrong, possibly a blockage somewhere. >This is a good point. My brother-in-law was the first person I heard >mention this. He always gets a higher reading on his right arm than his >left. >Let say you go to the doctor’s office and take your meter with you to >try and test their comparability – yours on one arm and the doctors on >the other. You really might not prove anything. Lada da da! :) >Frank

Oh Frank, you’re wicked. — Quentin Grady       ^  ^  / New Zealand,       >#,#< [                     / /     "… and the blind dog was leading." http://homepages.paradise.net.nz/quentin

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This post not CC’d by email >Hi Quentin, >answer to your questions >1.  I take one reading >2.  not applicable >3.  I like what I see and quit while I am ahead. >:-) >Loretta

ROTFL   Great attitude. — Quentin Grady       ^  ^  / New Zealand,       >#,#< [                     / /     "… and the blind dog was leading." http://homepages.paradise.net.nz/quentin

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Julie , W.Baker , Yeah , thats one thing that really can not be done on those free drug-store automatic BP test machines , they are only set-up for the Left arm , I believe tim – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > <snip> > IF you test both arms seriatum and there is a sicnificant difference > betwen them, soemthing is wrong, possibly a blockage somewhere. > Interesting.  When I was pregnant, they used to get signifigantly different > readings from one side to the other.  Can’t remember now which side was > which.  Guess I should check that now and see if it’s still the same. > <snip>

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NO WAY would an eye-doctor get even the slightest chance to test me for glacoma the " old-fashioned " way !!! I would be RUNNING out the door for another DR. , IMMEDIATELY !!! tim – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> G’day G’day Folks, >   Some days it is like being born again.  One discovers little > challenges like gravity … unless one laughs at oneself and figures > one already knows the answer in another context or other people have > solved the problem before one even knew the current one existed. > OK, so looking at a similar context in which there is already a > solution. > When measuring peak flow rates for asthma one measures the best of > three ie the highest reading.  That seems reasonable. It measures what > one’s lungs CAN do. The assumption is the other lower readings arose > from something like mistiming the puff. > Is the blood pressure situation truly analogous? > Are we looking for the best reading in the blood pressure case? > OK, so eliciting what others already know about the situation. > For those of you who regularly take blood pressure readings, > 1.  How many readings do you take at one session? > 2.  Which one, if any, do you record? > 3.  What’s the rationale behind your strategy? > I don’t currently take any BP readings unless for some reason I think it > might be out of whack.  I’ve had slightly high BP since my mid 20’s.  It > seems to be very well controlled with medication and my current Dr. sees no > reason for me to monitor it at home on a regular basis.  This was not always > so.  When I was going to the military facility in Cape Cod, the Dr. I saw > wanted me to keep a log of my BP readings.  He suggested twice daily random > readings, but I often did more readings just for the heck of it.  Had a lot > of time on my hands and there’s not much to do in Cape Cod, especially in > the winter!  *L* > What I learned is that I could take reading after reading repeatedly, and > get entirely different numbers.  I also learned that I almost always got > lower readings at home.  Usually low enough to be well below normal.  But I > also studied up on taking the readings and when I did them at home, I did > everything the way it is supposed to be done.  For one thing, I made sure to > get a cuff that was large enough to fit well around my upper arm.  If the > cuff is too small (or too large) you’ll get a false reading.  I can’t tell > you how many times I’ve been to a new Dr. and they’ve used the standard cuff > on me.  They will then get a funny look on their face, then go get the > larger cuff.  They always get a better reading then.  My arms are not fat, > but they are very muscular and for that reason, I need the larger cuff. > Other things that can affect your reading are talking, eating, drinking, and > activity.  It’s best not to have anything to eat or drink immediately before > taking a reading and to sit still for 5 minutes before taking a reading. > Take good deep breaths while doing the reading.  I’ve found that shallow > breaths or holding your breath can give you a higher reading.  This is one > reason why my readings are always higher at the Drs. office.  I hate having > that cuff squeezing my arm.  I’m fine to do it to myself, but I dislike > having anyone else do it to me.  I get sort of panicky.  I think this is > because I once had a nurse pump the cuff up on my arm, then leave the room > to talk on the phone to her boyfriend.  She left me like that for about 5 > minutes.  I was much younger then and didn’t know what to do.  I thought if > I took the cuff off I might break it or something, so I sat there suffering > and seething.  Needless to say, my reading was quite high then! > And at one point, my eye Dr. feared I had glaucoma.  They had gotten a new > machine at their office that puffs air into the center of your eye to check > the pressure.  The person doing it wasn’t doing it right.  If done right, it > doesn’t hurt.  But she kept missing the center of my eye and that not only > hurt, but dried my eyes out.  I was so tense from that they couldn’t get a > decent reading.  The Dr. then did an experiment.  He tested my BP using an > arm cuff.  It was normal.  He then seated me at the machine and tested it > again.  It went WAY high!  He also did the old fashioned glaucoma test where > the eye is numbed with cocaine and a needle is inserted to check the > pressure.  No glaucoma. > Also, when I was going to the Dr. in Cape Cod, they guy who often did the BP > tests was really chatty.  He was a really nice guy and had just come from > the area where I grew up.  So he would strike up a conversation with me > about the Seattle area.  This was nice, but I would get excited in talking > to him, and my BP would go up.  I kept telling him that it’s best not to > talk during a reading and that I feared that our conversations were giving > me higher readings.  So he agreed that the next time I came in, he would let > someone else do my BP.  Sure enough, I got a decent reading. > So while I know all these things, it does pose some questions in my mind. > Most of us do not spend our days sitting around breathing deeply and doing > nothing.  We have conversations.  We get excited.  We get tense and stressed > out.  We eat, exercise, etc.  In fact, we probably spend most of our day > doing those things instead of sitting around attempting to relax.  So it > almost seems better to me to go for a random reading without all the prep > stuff. > Another thing I’ve been told is that some people have a problem with BP that > relates to sitting, standing or lying down.  Their BP might be fine for most > of the day, but might go too high or too low when changing positions.  For > that reason, it’s a good idea to take occasional tests in different > positions and immediately after changing positions.

Response:

<snip> > IF you test both arms seriatum and there is a sicnificant difference > betwen them, soemthing is wrong, possibly a blockage somewhere.

Interesting.  When I was pregnant, they used to get signifigantly different readings from one side to the other.  Can’t remember now which side was which.  Guess I should check that now and see if it’s still the same. <snip> — Type 2 http://users.bestweb.net/~jbove/

Response:

Hi Quentin, answer to your questions 1.  I take one reading 2.  not applicable 3.  I like what I see and quit while I am ahead. :-) Loretta — In tribute to the United States of America and the State of Israel, two bastions of strength in a world filled with strife and terrorism.

Response:

This post not CC’d by email – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >I don’t take my bp as faithfully as I might, but have a fewsomewhat >non-systematic comments.  My bp machine booklet and Endo said don’t take >one test on the sme are right after another.  You will get a lower , and >false reading because something happens to the arteries. *(They told me >what the something was, but I am havein ga senior moment.) >IF you test both arms seriatum and there is a sicnificant difference >betwen them, soemthing is wrong, possibly a blockage somewhere. >IF you rest after even mild exercise (like walkin garound the rom, or from >one room to another and then test 15 mins or so later after yu have been >sitting and there is a drop in your bp, you are in bad shape and need to >do more aerobic exercise.   >Don’t know if any of this helps you in your quest or not, but it is the >little that I know.

G’day G’day Wendy,     I’m sure it will help.  In my experience even when someone mentions something and can’t remember all the details … it reminds someone else of an important point … the collective mind at work. Talking about knowing whether one is in good shape or not, how significant in pulse rate.   I tested three times in a row and got 51 beats per minute +/- 1. Best wishes, >Wendy

– Quentin Grady       ^  ^  / New Zealand,       >#,#< [                     / /     "… and the blind dog was leading." http://homepages.paradise.net.nz/quentin

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> G’day G’day Folks, >   Some days it is like being born again.  One discovers little > challenges like gravity … unless one laughs at oneself and figures > one already knows the answer in another context or other people have > solved the problem before one even knew the current one existed. > OK, so looking at a similar context in which there is already a > solution. > When measuring peak flow rates for asthma one measures the best of > three ie the highest reading.  That seems reasonable. It measures what > one’s lungs CAN do. The assumption is the other lower readings arose > from something like mistiming the puff. > Is the blood pressure situation truly analogous? > Are we looking for the best reading in the blood pressure case? > OK, so eliciting what others already know about the situation. > For those of you who regularly take blood pressure readings, > 1.  How many readings do you take at one session? > 2.  Which one, if any, do you record? > 3.  What’s the rationale behind your strategy?

I don’t currently take any BP readings unless for some reason I think it might be out of whack.  I’ve had slightly high BP since my mid 20’s.  It seems to be very well controlled with medication and my current Dr. sees no reason for me to monitor it at home on a regular basis.  This was not always so.  When I was going to the military facility in Cape Cod, the Dr. I saw wanted me to keep a log of my BP readings.  He suggested twice daily random readings, but I often did more readings just for the heck of it.  Had a lot of time on my hands and there’s not much to do in Cape Cod, especially in the winter!  *L* What I learned is that I could take reading after reading repeatedly, and get entirely different numbers.  I also learned that I almost always got lower readings at home.  Usually low enough to be well below normal.  But I also studied up on taking the readings and when I did them at home, I did everything the way it is supposed to be done.  For one thing, I made sure to get a cuff that was large enough to fit well around my upper arm.  If the cuff is too small (or too large) you’ll get a false reading.  I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been to a new Dr. and they’ve used the standard cuff on me.  They will then get a funny look on their face, then go get the larger cuff.  They always get a better reading then.  My arms are not fat, but they are very muscular and for that reason, I need the larger cuff. Other things that can affect your reading are talking, eating, drinking, and activity.  It’s best not to have anything to eat or drink immediately before taking a reading and to sit still for 5 minutes before taking a reading. Take good deep breaths while doing the reading.  I’ve found that shallow breaths or holding your breath can give you a higher reading.  This is one reason why my readings are always higher at the Drs. office.  I hate having that cuff squeezing my arm.  I’m fine to do it to myself, but I dislike having anyone else do it to me.  I get sort of panicky.  I think this is because I once had a nurse pump the cuff up on my arm, then leave the room to talk on the phone to her boyfriend.  She left me like that for about 5 minutes.  I was much younger then and didn’t know what to do.  I thought if I took the cuff off I might break it or something, so I sat there suffering and seething.  Needless to say, my reading was quite high then! And at one point, my eye Dr. feared I had glaucoma.  They had gotten a new machine at their office that puffs air into the center of your eye to check the pressure.  The person doing it wasn’t doing it right.  If done right, it doesn’t hurt.  But she kept missing the center of my eye and that not only hurt, but dried my eyes out.  I was so tense from that they couldn’t get a decent reading.  The Dr. then did an experiment.  He tested my BP using an arm cuff.  It was normal.  He then seated me at the machine and tested it again.  It went WAY high!  He also did the old fashioned glaucoma test where the eye is numbed with cocaine and a needle is inserted to check the pressure.  No glaucoma. Also, when I was going to the Dr. in Cape Cod, they guy who often did the BP tests was really chatty.  He was a really nice guy and had just come from the area where I grew up.  So he would strike up a conversation with me about the Seattle area.  This was nice, but I would get excited in talking to him, and my BP would go up.  I kept telling him that it’s best not to talk during a reading and that I feared that our conversations were giving me higher readings.  So he agreed that the next time I came in, he would let someone else do my BP.  Sure enough, I got a decent reading. So while I know all these things, it does pose some questions in my mind. Most of us do not spend our days sitting around breathing deeply and doing nothing.  We have conversations.  We get excited.  We get tense and stressed out.  We eat, exercise, etc.  In fact, we probably spend most of our day doing those things instead of sitting around attempting to relax.  So it almost seems better to me to go for a random reading without all the prep stuff. Another thing I’ve been told is that some people have a problem with BP that relates to sitting, standing or lying down.  Their BP might be fine for most of the day, but might go too high or too low when changing positions.  For that reason, it’s a good idea to take occasional tests in different positions and immediately after changing positions. — Type 2 http://users.bestweb.net/~jbove/

Response:

Hello Quentin, At the doctors office it is taken once by the nurse and most doctors will take it again when you are in the room with him/her.  The doctor takes it again to see if it has gone "up" any.  If it has, then that means when you are stressed (most are when seeing the doctor) and that your bp med may not be working that well.  It means you have white coat hypertension, which means that anytime you are stressed, your bp is going up even when on meds.  If it goes too high, they will usually end up changing the particular med that you on.  Most will give it at least one more visit before they do that, though.  At least this is what I have found out. When I check at home, I usually only check it in the mornings and the evenings (once each time).  I do not check it all of the time, but at least once or twice a month I have a period of time where I keep tabs on it to make sure the bp med is still working (maybe 5 days in a row).  I do record the readings and other specifics (under stress, sick, etc.). I am probably not what you would consider a "regular" checker as I do not check it everyday. My bp ususally runs around 120/70. Best, Dot Type 2  Diag 8/2001 – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >G’day G’day Folks, >  Some days it is like being born again.  One discovers little >challenges like gravity … unless one laughs at oneself and figures >one already knows the answer in another context or other people have >solved the problem before one even knew the current one existed.   >OK, so looking at a similar context in which there is already a >solution. >When measuring peak flow rates for asthma one measures the best of >three ie the highest reading.  That seems reasonable. It measures what >one’s lungs CAN do. The assumption is the other lower readings arose >from something like mistiming the puff.   >Is the blood pressure situation truly analogous? >Are we looking for the best reading in the blood pressure case? >OK, so eliciting what others already know about the situation. >For those of you who regularly take blood pressure readings, >1.  How many readings do you take at one session? >2.  Which one, if any, do you record? >3.  What’s the rationale behind your strategy?   >Thanks,

Response:

: G’day G’day Folks, :   Some days it is like being born again.  One discovers little : challenges like gravity … unless one laughs at oneself and figures : one already knows the answer in another context or other people have : solved the problem before one even knew the current one existed.   : OK, so looking at a similar context in which there is already a : solution. : When measuring peak flow rates for asthma one measures the best of : three ie the highest reading.  That seems reasonable. It measures what : one’s lungs CAN do. The assumption is the other lower readings arose : from something like mistiming the puff.   : Is the blood pressure situation truly analogous? : Are we looking for the best reading in the blood pressure case? : OK, so eliciting what others already know about the situation. : For those of you who regularly take blood pressure readings, : 1.  How many readings do you take at one session? : 2.  Which one, if any, do you record? : 3.  What’s the rationale behind your strategy?   : Thanks, :   : — : Quentin Grady       ^  ^  / : New Zealand,       >#,#< [ :                     / /     : "… and the blind dog was leading." : http://homepages.paradise.net.nz/quentin I don’t take my bp as faithfully as I might, but have a fewsomewhat non-systematic comments.  My bp machine booklet and Endo said don’t take one test on the sme are right after another.  You will get a lower , and false reading because something happens to the arteries. *(They told me what the something was, but I am havein ga senior moment.) IF you test both arms seriatum and there is a sicnificant difference betwen them, soemthing is wrong, possibly a blockage somewhere. IF you rest after even mild exercise (like walkin garound the rom, or from one room to another and then test 15 mins or so later after yu have been sitting and there is a drop in your bp, you are in bad shape and need to do more aerobic exercise.   Don’t know if any of this helps you in your quest or not, but it is the little that I know. Wendy

Response:

G’day G’day Folks,   Some days it is like being born again.  One discovers little challenges like gravity … unless one laughs at oneself and figures one already knows the answer in another context or other people have solved the problem before one even knew the current one existed.   OK, so looking at a similar context in which there is already a solution. When measuring peak flow rates for asthma one measures the best of three ie the highest reading.  That seems reasonable. It measures what one’s lungs CAN do. The assumption is the other lower readings arose from something like mistiming the puff.   Is the blood pressure situation truly analogous? Are we looking for the best reading in the blood pressure case? OK, so eliciting what others already know about the situation. For those of you who regularly take blood pressure readings, 1.  How many readings do you take at one session? 2.  Which one, if any, do you record? 3.  What’s the rationale behind your strategy?   Thanks, — Quentin Grady       ^  ^  / New Zealand,       >#,#< [                     / /     "… and the blind dog was leading." http://homepages.paradise.net.nz/quentin

Response:

Categories: Bronchial Asthma

Question:

 Hi Nancy,         I took methotrexate about 10 yrs. ago.  I had awful side effects.  It got to the point where I couldn’t walk, get out of bed, and just lying in bed hurt.  My knees, hips back, neck and head all ached and moving made it worse.  No change in asthma. For me it was poison. I hope that it helps you. Pam

Response:

Hi Nancy I take methotrexate once aweek.  I have been taking it off and on for 4 years.  Change of doctors caused the off and on.  Right now, I’m on it. I get blood work done every 6 months or sooner.  I’m not on oral steriods( made me deathly ill……last rites said over 10 times…) so now I’m on Pulmicort 2 puffs a day and a breathing machine.  Has it hlped I say yes.  I haven’t been in the hospital in over 4 years. ( The Pulmicort I just started 2 months ago.)                                  Lyssa

Response:

I took MTX for 1 year back in 94-95 and it successfully got me off long term use of predisone.  I too asked on this list for feedback from others taking MTX when I started it.  I’ll include the two response I got back then below.  The only side effect I had was a very very slight nausea most of the time. I know of others that have had bad experiences with MTX.  Some have had bad reactions to it so be sure to monitor yourself for any signs of respitory problem the first day you take it and get to the ER if you do. From the other posts it looks like there is much more info today than there was 5 years ago when treating asthma with MTX was just making its way out of research to the public. Hope all goes well with your use of MTX.   Technology Support Analyst, Principal   Information Technology   Arizona State University   BOX 870101                        PHONE  -  (602) 965-5663   Tempe, AZ  85287-0101     FAX  -  (602) 965-8698 Path: news.asu.edu!asuvax!cs.utexas.edu!math.ohio-state.edu!magnus.acs.ohio-state .edu! csn!news.sinet.slb.com!maggie.austin.wireline.slb.com!usenet Newsgroups: alt.support.asthma Organization: Pandora Project Lines: 80 Distribution: world NNTP-Posting-Host: asc144.austin.slcs.slb.com X-News-Reader: VMS NEWS v1.25 – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > I will starting to use Metrotrexate on Monday to see if my > Predinsone usage can be dropped/lowered.   The use of > Metrotrexate with asthmatics is just beginning to be more > open outside the testing/research setting.  Would be > interested in hearing from other asthmatic that have began > to use Metrotrexate. > Metrotrexate is an anti-inflammatory drug typicaly used with > people undergoing chemotherapy.  Asthmatics receiving this med > are typically given 1/10 the dose of the chemo patient.  There > has been some testing with a small group of asthmatics that > shows some good results but nothing large or long enough to > show pros and cons.  The side effects of Metrotrexate are far > less than those of Predinsone.

Hi!  I’m glad to share my own experience with Methotrexate.  I took the drug for almost three years in an effort to decrease my steroid dose.  I’ll list the good and bad stuff below.  MTX is not free of side effects by any means and is usually contemplated only for folks who are maxed out on the regular drugs and dependent on significant doses of oral steroids or who have severe complications from the ‘roids. one third. It reduced the number of hospitalizations for IV solu-medrol therapy, and it reduced slightly the hyper-reactivity of my airways.  My lung function did not improve while I was on the drug, but it did not deteriorate with the decreased pred dose. must have liver function tests done on a routine basis as well as CBCs (including platelets).  Currently the recommendation is that you also have a liver biopsy after every 1.0 to 1.5 gram of drug, so depending on how much you take each week, this could be every one or two years.  The reason this is recommended is that MTX can cause liver damage that does not always show up on the function tests. Arthritis patients have been treated with MTX for several years and I know folks were asking about changing the recommended biopsy, but as far as I know, it still stands.  Your blood count becomes abnormal while on the drug, but not dangerously so.  (It’s not normal on high doses of pred either).  Some very common side effects include nausea and headache. For me the nausea was chronic (i.e. all the time) and the headache was severe but manageable (see notes below).  All the biopsy results were fine too. MANAGEMENT NOTES:  When I started MTX therapy I had been on relatively high doses of steroid for several years (60-80 mg per day)and even then was not exactly under control.  I had been on another experimental therapy that almost killed me (but my lungs were working!) and was definitely maxed out on all the other meds.  My decision to start on the MTX was based on the fact that I was starting to suffer severe steroid complications and my quality of life was very poor.  I have wonderful pulmonologists who care for me and we went over all the pros and cons.  No one knows what the long term effects of methotrexate are, but it is a very potent drug…most chemo agents are. I was willing to gamble.  I got used to the nausea and in fact didn’t realize how much a part of me it was until I got off the drug.  I took MTX by injection, it worked better for me that way and I ended up taking slightly more of the drug than most asthmatics do…that was determined by blood levels of the drug after I took it.  I avoided the headaches by giving myself the shots at night just before I went to sleep.  Although the MTX worked as advertised (30% reduction in ‘roid dose) I was on such a large dose of prednisone that I was faced with side effects from the prednisone continuing and having to deal with the MTX side effects.  After much discussion, my doctors and I agreed to discontinue the MTX and see what happened.  I decided that I would not re-start the drug.  (there were some other things in the wings with respect to new therapies). GOOD THINGS TO REMEMBER:  All these asthma treatments work differently on different people.  What works for me might work even better for you or might be more than you want to try.  You, with the help of your doctors, are the only one who can decide what to try.  When you have really severe asthma that is not under control, you don’t have many options. I wish you the very best of luck.  The studies indicate that some folks are able to get off their prednisone completely with Methotrexate. Hope you’re one of the lucky ones! Pat Crockett, whose physicians assure her that the correct medical term for her condition is "god-awful asthma" :) . Path: news.asu.edu!asuvax!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!pipex!uunet!German y.EU. net!netmbx.de!zib-berlin.de!news.th-darmstadt.de!fauern!rrze.uni-erlangen.d e!not -for-mail Newsgroups: alt.support.asthma Organization: Regionales Rechenzentrum Erlangen, Germany NNTP-Posting-Host: cd4680fs.rrze.uni-erlangen.de Lines: 18 X-Newsreader: NN version 6.5beta3.0 #2 (NOV) I am on MTX since since 1988 with no sideeffects . MTX was given to me during a stay at the Asthma Health Clinic in Davos (Switzerland). My weekly dosis is 15mg. This dosis is given as 5mg tablets every 12 hours spread over 36 hours. I have not experienced sideeffects like headache or any effects which are normally mentioned with MTX. My daily dosis of prednison has gone down extermly from 30mg to now 7,5mg. I am on no special diet, besides the normal bavarian diet, and I do sports on a regular basis. In Davos they told me that I should not get children while on MTX, but that I could if would take a break from MTX of 6 month. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask. Peter T. Klein – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Hiya – > Just came back from the doctor’s office and it looks like I have to start > taking Methotrexate, until the study medicine I just finished taking comes out. >  It used to be used in chemotherapy for cancer patients and was found to have > great anti-inflammatory properties and works in some asthmatics. > I know the big side effect can be liver toxicity, and I will have to have liver > function tests once a month to keep track.  I would like to know if anyone else > has ever taken this medication, and if they had any other side effects. > Thanks in advance! > Life is uncertain – eat dessert first. > Nancy > 8=: )

Response:

> I know the big side effect can be liver toxicity, and I will have to have liver > function tests once a month to keep track.  I would like to know if anyone else > has ever taken this medication, and if they had any other side effects.

Hi I took methotrexate for four months and found that unfortunately it did nothing for my asthma. The major side effect I had was bowel trouble. Renae

Response:

Hiya – Just came back from the doctor’s office and it looks like I have to start taking Methotrexate, until the study medicine I just finished taking comes out.  It used to be used in chemotherapy for cancer patients and was found to have great anti-inflammatory properties and works in some asthmatics. I know the big side effect can be liver toxicity, and I will have to have liver function tests once a month to keep track.  I would like to know if anyone else has ever taken this medication, and if they had any other side effects. Thanks in advance! Life is uncertain – eat dessert first. Nancy 8=: )

Response:

> Hiya – > Just came back from the doctor’s office and it looks like I have to start > taking Methotrexate, until the study medicine I just finished taking comes out. ><Snip>

Nancy, I have discussed this drug with my doctor.  He is of the opinion that Methotrexate is not very effective at treating asthma.  We tried Cyclosporine and it works great.  I am on a much lower dose than what is recommended for transplant patients.  I am happy with the results and am starting to wean off of it. I am also trying gammaglobulin replacement therapy.  This with the Cyclosporine has changed my life dramatically. For side effects of the Methotrexate go to http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/mtx_ad.htm#DI.  This is the adverse reaction section for Methotrexate.   — Good Luck. Lisa Hinsberg

Response:

> Just came back from the doctor’s office and it looks like I have to start > taking Methotrexate, until the study medicine I just finished taking comes out. >  It used to be used in chemotherapy for cancer patients and was found to have > great anti-inflammatory properties and works in some asthmatics. > I know the big side effect can be liver toxicity, and I will have to have liver > function tests once a month to keep track.  I would like to know if anyone else > has ever taken this medication, and if they had any other side effects. > Thanks in advance! > Life is uncertain – eat dessert first. > Nancy  8=: )

You can get more info from Medline using PubMed. For example: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/htbin-post/Entrez/query?uid=9893776&form=… Respir Med 1998 Aug;92(8):1059-65 Management of steroid-dependent asthma with methotrexate: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Aaron SD, Dales RE, Pham B Department of Medicine, Ottawa General Hospital,  University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Our objective was to determine whether methotrexate is an effective steroid-sparing agent for patients with severe asthma. Published reports of controlled trials assessing the use of methotrexate in asthma were identified by a search of the MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Biological Abstracts on CD, and Current Contents databases. Data from 12 studies, reporting on a total of 250 patients,  were pooled using a weighted average method, with weights  proportional to the inverse of the variance of the treatment  effect. Compared to placebo, the use of methotrexate was  associated with a pooled 6.0% improvement in FEV1  (95% CI, 1.0-11%) and an 18.2% reduction in oral steroid  use (95% CI, 11.7-24.7%). This corresponded to a 3.3 mg  day-1 greater reduction in oral steroid use for patients taking  methotrexate than for those taking placebo (95% CI, 2.1-4.4 mg day-1).  Gastrointestinal complications and transient increases in liver  enzymes were more common in patients randomized to methotrexate.  Three potentially life-threatening side-effects (two pneumonias  and one liver dysfunction) occurred in 159 patients randomized to  methotrexate vs. none in those patients on placebo. It was  concluded that methotrexate allowed a modest reduction in oral  corticosteroid compared to patients receiving placebo. The benefit  is relatively small, however, and should be balanced against the  potential for side-effects associated with the use of methotrexate. PMID: 9893776, UI: 99109774 There are a couple of paragraphs in the book The Asthma Sourcebook, 2nd Ed Nov 97, Francis Adams, MD Quoting: "Further studies have not been as positive and long term studies of adverse effects in asthmatic patients have not been completed. Since methotrexate may cause pneumonia and scarring of the lungs know as pulmonary fibrosis, its use in patients with underlying lung disease such as asthma may prove hazardous. An additional worrisome side effect is the potential for liver damage. Patients receiving methotrexate must have frequent blood tests for liver function, chest x-rays, and comprehensive pulmonary function tests looking for evidence of fibrosis. Unless further studies show a greater benefit to this drug’s use in bronchial asthma, it is likely to be used sparingly." You may want to ask your doctor if he has ever used methotrexate for asthma before and how it worked. You may also benefit from a 2nd opinion, preferably from an asthma expert–National Jewish in Denver has done research in this area 1-800-222-LUNG for advice. www.njc.org The final decision on whether to take this drug is your’s. Ellis

Response:

Categories: Allergic Asthma

Question:

>I am looking for suggestions for dog breeds that might be best for >someone who has asthma. Also, what kinds of things should be done to >make the dog less of a problem to people with allergies?

If you are allergic to dogs (and not everyone is) you shouldn’t consider getting one.  Both the humans and the dogs can be very upset if it becomes necessary to rehome the dog.  Ditto cats, and any other furry pet. The best way to make dogs (or cats or horses etc.) less of a problem to people who are allergic to them is avoidance. And finally, if you think you have allergies get proper testing so you don’t spend time, money and effort barking up the wrong tree. — Surfer!    Send email to: surfer at                nevis-view dot                    demon dot co dot uk "I can resist anything but temptation" – Oscar Wilde ;-)

Response:

I suffer very severely from allergies. I have looked into this subject very much. I have been told by several people including breeders that the best breed for allergy suffers is the Italian Grayhound. I plan to get one in the future. Vanetta > I am looking for suggestions for dog breeds that might be best for > someone who has asthma. Also, what kinds of things should be done to > make the dog less of a problem to people with allergies? > Thank you > – Sneezy

Response:

We have a bulldog and we make sure to wash her once a week.  She stays out of my asthmatic son’s room (we keep his door closed at all times) and I wash her blankets once a week and try to vacuum every day.  We discourage our son from rolling around on the floor with her or playing with her blankets or in her kennel. My son has not had any reactions to her, but he does around other dogs (longer haired breeds or dogs that aren’t bathed very much).  When we visit people with dogs, his pediatrician suggested we double his dose of Flovent. (2 puffs/2x day instead of his usual 2 puffs/1x day). This is what works for our family.

Response:

Poodles, and a kind of curly haired retriever are currently touted as being ‘best’ because their coat is considered hair not fur; they do not shed. Instead, they require frequent grooming (every 2-4 weeks instead of 5-6). Current conventional wisdom is to bathe the dog about every 2 weeks, and to use a moisturizing or gentle shampoo. Bathing very frequently or using strong shampoos causes dry skin which is then shed. It is this shed skin (which contains dander) which causes the most problems to allergy sufferers. Though allergic (and more importantly, not asthmatic), I find I can tolerate my own dog, as long as we are not separated for weeks. More than 3 weeks and my reaction level rises for a few awhile. (Same for our cats, btw.). To minimize having places for fur and dander to settle, we try to remember to vacuum daily, have no rugs, and just replaced our worn out couch w/a leather sofa. We should keep the pets out of the bedroom, but fail miserably. Ultimately, be guided by the asthmatic’s reactions. This person may not be able to tolerate a dog, even with every precaution and care. And since asthma can be fatal, the risk of reaction is far greater than the benefits of having a dog.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I am looking for suggestions for dog breeds that might be best for > someone who has asthma. Also, what kinds of things should be done to > make the dog less of a problem to people with allergies? > Thank you > – Sneezy

Response:

[snip] >me, i live with a pit bull terrier, which my wife is in fact allergic to. >nowhere near as badly as she is to cats, however, and the dog is worth >what trouble she is to keep. most of that trouble is because the poor >animal is allergic herself; to what, we haven’t really narrowed down yet, >but pollens and grasses certainly. possibly also some food allergies in >there. i hear this breed is quite susceptible to allergies, unfortunately.

You don’t need to narrow it down.  Take your dog to the vet and get a prescription for antihistamines.  If they don’t bring adequate relief of symptoms then go for more detailed diagnostics.  Grass itch is common in dogs and any vet with experience knows what to do about it. Best to take the dog when symptoms are present, owner descriptions of the problem usually don’t include the details they’d really like to have for diagnosis.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > [snip] >me, i live with a pit bull terrier, which my wife is in fact allergic to. >nowhere near as badly as she is to cats, however, and the dog is worth >what trouble she is to keep. most of that trouble is because the poor >animal is allergic herself; to what, we haven’t really narrowed down yet, >but pollens and grasses certainly. possibly also some food allergies in >there. i hear this breed is quite susceptible to allergies, unfortunately. > You don’t need to narrow it down.  Take your dog to the vet and get a > prescription for antihistamines.  If they don’t bring adequate relief > of symptoms then go for more detailed diagnostics.  Grass itch is > common in dogs and any vet with experience knows what to do about it. > Best to take the dog when symptoms are present, owner descriptions of > the problem usually don’t include the details they’d really like to > have for diagnosis.

Ragweed hay fever is not a rarity in dogs, and because of their close contact with the pollen they tend to have dematitis from it as well.    Larry

Response:

a Hot Dog!

Response:

http://www.aircleaners.com here. Put in a search for non-allergic dogs. Thats what we did and alot of info came up.Our two huge Tibetan Mastiffs are allergen free as they do not have the allergy protein in their sweat or salvia. They only shed once a year for aprox three weeks in the springtime when they blow their winter coat. It is easy to brush out when the yearly shedding comes in.The Tibetan is a handsome 100-140 pound powerful dog that will instinctively protect your family and property with their very lives.They can easily take down the largest of men. On the other hand they are very very gentle with babies, family members and with people that have been invited into the home by a family member.There are many small to medium size dogs that are also non-allergic for most people. A couple of good choices are the Bichon Frise and the Wheaton Terrier. Both of these breeds are very nice. Great family pets that do not shed at all, so they must be groomed by a pro if you want them to keep their proper look. We hope that this has been helpful for you and to others. Signature To Chat With A LIVE Sales Person { NOW ! } Click On The Box To The Right Add the HumanClick "Click to Chat" button to your own e-mails for free at www.humanclick.com

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->I am looking for suggestions for dog breeds that might be best for >someone who has asthma. Also, what kinds of things should be done to >make the dog less of a problem to people with allergies? > If you are allergic to dogs (and not everyone is) you shouldn’t consider > getting one.  Both the humans and the dogs can be very upset if it > becomes necessary to rehome the dog.  Ditto cats, and any other furry > pet. > The best way to make dogs (or cats or horses etc.) less of a problem to > people who are allergic to them is avoidance. > And finally, if you think you have allergies get proper testing so you > don’t spend time, money and effort barking up the wrong tree. > — > Surfer!    Send email to: surfer at >                nevis-view dot >                    demon dot co dot uk > "I can resist anything but temptation" – Oscar Wilde ;-)

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > http://www.aircleaners.com here. Put in a search for non-allergic dogs. > Thats what we did and alot of info came up.Our two huge Tibetan Mastiffs are > allergen free as they do not have the allergy protein in their sweat or > salvia. They only shed once a year for aprox three weeks in the springtime > when they blow their winter coat. It is easy to brush out when the yearly > shedding comes in.The Tibetan is a handsome 100-140 pound powerful dog that > will instinctively protect your family and property with their very > lives.They can easily take down the largest of men. On the other hand they > are very very gentle with babies, family members and with people that have > been invited into the home by a family member.There are many small to medium > size dogs that are also non-allergic for most people. A couple of good > choices are the Bichon Frise and the Wheaton Terrier. Both of these breeds > are very nice. Great family pets that do not shed at all, so they must be > groomed by a pro if you want them to keep their proper look. We hope that > this has been helpful for you and to others.

You know, I really doubt this. All dogs have dander; that is, all shed dead epidermal skin flakes. Before I can accept your claim that Tibetan Mastiffs are non-allergic I will have to hear real-life experience, rather than conjecture or dog-breeder myth. If you know of people who are clearly and unquestionably allergic to dogs who tolerate contact with the Mastiffs (or Bichons or Wheatons) without symptoms I would very much like to hear more. BTW, all dogs are non-allergic for most people, even for most allergic people.     Larry

Response:

>http://www.aircleaners.com here. Put in a search for non-allergic dogs. >Thats what we did and alot of info came up.Our two huge Tibetan Mastiffs are >allergen free as they do not have the allergy protein in their sweat or >salvia.

Odd, how the only people making these claims are the ones selling them.  This is the sort of claim that I would want to see independently verified by a reputable organization. "Being responsible sometimes means pissing people off."    General Colin Powell

Response:

>I suffer very severely from allergies. I have looked into this subject >very much. I have been told by several people including breeders that >the best breed for allergy suffers is the Italian Grayhound. I plan to >get one in the future.

Please, please DON’T GET A DOG unless you *know* you are not allergic to them.  Dogs are living beings and it’s quite unfair to treat them as chattels which can be disposed of if they don’t suit. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Vanetta > I am looking for suggestions for dog breeds that might be best for > someone who has asthma. Also, what kinds of things should be done to > make the dog less of a problem to people with allergies? > Thank you > – Sneezy

– Surfer!    Send email to: surfer at                nevis-view dot                    demon dot co dot uk "I can resist anything but temptation" – Oscar Wilde ;-)

Response:

> I am looking for suggestions for dog breeds that might be best for > someone who has asthma. Also, what kinds of things should be done to > make the dog less of a problem to people with allergies?

You may want to consider a robotic pet! http://www.aibo.com/ — Steven D. Litvintchouk                   Disclaimer:  As far as I am aware, the opinions expressed herein             are not those of my employer.

Response:

<~I am looking for suggestions for dog breeds that might be best for someone who has asthma. Also, what kinds of things should be done to make the dog less of a problem to people with allergies?~> I have a black lab mix and a shorthaired pointer. They both shed, but as long as I keep things vaccumed and the sheets washed it is ok. Chihuauas are good for Asthma sufferers. I like hairless cats :)

Response:

>I am looking for suggestions for dog breeds that might be best for >someone who has asthma. Also, what kinds of things should be done to >make the dog less of a problem to people with allergies? >Thank you

I think what people are allergic to varies.  What you might try is to spend some time in the company of a certain breed (like a poodle maybe) or in someone’s home that has a dog and see how you do.  That might be a better idea than purchasing an animal and then having to part with it. I can tell you, that in my experience, you might be able to  build up a resistance to the dog over time.  In my own case, the dog was there before I was born, and while she was alive, I was allergic to no animals. She died and we didnt replace her, and I am now allergic to people with animals, LOL (well, the hair/dander) on their clothes). I had apparently built up a natural immunity to the dog, but lost it as time passed. Life is uncertain – eat dessert first. Nancy 8=: )

Response:

Just the other night they ran a "special interest" story on the news about pet allergies and said something about folks allergic to dogs might try a breed of dog that has more human-type hair (the dog on the show was some sort of poodle…).  Sorry I cannot remember the specifics. Pam

Response:

> Just the other night they ran a "special interest" story on the news about pet > allergies and said something about folks allergic to dogs might try a breed of > dog that has more human-type hair (the dog on the show was some sort of > poodle…).  Sorry I cannot remember the specifics. > Pam

Unfortunately, hair doesn’t matter, as that is not what people are allergic to.    Larry

Response:

>I have a black lab mix and a shorthaired pointer. They both shed, but as long >as I keep things vaccumed and the sheets washed it is ok. Chihuauas are good >for Asthma sufferers. I like hairless cats :)

Note: the idea that chihuahuas help asthma is a myth. "Being responsible sometimes means pissing people off."    General Colin Powell

Response:

>Just the other night they ran a "special interest" story on the news about pet >allergies and said something about folks allergic to dogs might try a breed of >dog that has more human-type hair (the dog on the show was some sort of >poodle…).  Sorry I cannot remember the specifics.

People do not become allergic to the fur.  The allergen is an enzyme found in the skin oil and saliva. "Being responsible sometimes means pissing people off."    General Colin Powell

Response:

>I am looking for suggestions for dog breeds that might be best for >someone who has asthma. Also, what kinds of things should be done to >make the dog less of a problem to people with allergies?

First of all, have that person tested for allergies.  Note: people do not become allergic to animal hair, they become allergic to an enzyme in the skin oils and saliva. "Being responsible sometimes means pissing people off."    General Colin Powell

Response:

(PENMART01) writes: > Non-allergenic breeds of dogs or cats do not exist

   This is absolutely true. However… I’m allergic to most animals with fur but not to my 2 Cairn Terriers. Poodles are also sometimes "non allergenic". This actually depends more on the individual person though. Be very careful before assuming that just because this works for someone it will also be true for you. Debi Debi   "Of all the things I’ve lost, I miss my mind the most!"

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I am looking for suggestions for dog breeds that might be best for > someone who has asthma. Also, what kinds of things should be done to > make the dog less of a problem to people with allergies? > Thank you > – Sneezy > Hi Sneezy, > If you (or a family member) have tested positive for an allergy to dogs, > then you are probably going to have problems no matter what breed you > choose.  However, my niece is highly allergic to dogs, has asthma that > requires daily treatment and does quite well with poodles as long as they > are bathed weekly (without fail). > My son and I both have allergies and asthma, but did NOT test positive on > allergy tests for dogs or cats and aren’t adversely affected by either our > two cats or collie.  We were lucky as they are all well loved and > established family members. > Best of luck > Patrice

The stories you often hear about the relative allergenicity of different breeds of dog are anecdotal at best. As their dander is the main allergen, and as it is produced by the skin, smaller dogs (those with less skin surface) are a better choice than large ones. Dogs with a short coat more easily cast the dander off into their surroundings than those with a heavy undercoat. For this reason there is a smaller load of allergen in the immediate vicinity of a short-coat dog, though the amount of dander present in the home may be the same for each type, given equal size. Frequent washing is, as Patrice says, extraordinarily important, and it is easier to wash a short-coated dog than a heavy coated animal. So – a small dog with a short coat, well cared for, is your best bet.    Larry

Response:

> The stories you often hear about the relative allergenicity of different > breeds of dog are anecdotal at best. As their dander is the main > allergen, and as it is produced by the skin, smaller dogs (those with > less skin surface) are a better choice than large ones. Dogs with a > short coat more easily cast the dander off into their surroundings than > those with a heavy undercoat. For this reason there is a smaller load of > allergen in the immediate vicinity of a short-coat dog, though the > amount of dander present in the home may be the same for each type, > given equal size. Frequent washing is, as Patrice says, extraordinarily > important, and it is easier to wash a short-coated dog than a heavy > coated animal. So – a small dog with a short coat, well cared for, is > your best bet.

me, i live with a pit bull terrier, which my wife is in fact allergic to. nowhere near as badly as she is to cats, however, and the dog is worth what trouble she is to keep. most of that trouble is because the poor animal is allergic herself; to what, we haven’t really narrowed down yet, but pollens and grasses certainly. possibly also some food allergies in there. i hear this breed is quite susceptible to allergies, unfortunately. pitbulls might actually be a good idea, if you do decide on getting a dog despite any possible allergies and asthmatic reactions; they’re short-haired enough, and though they’re not small, size has its benefits too – you don’t have to worry much about manhandling a pitbull, or accidentally hurting them by (say) tripping over them, really. in case you’re worried about their reputation, that’s usually the fight-trained dogs that have been abused until they react with aggression to almost any stimulus; a pitbull raised properly is no more aggressive than any other breed of dog. —    PGP/GnuPG key (ID 1024D/BFE0D6D0) available from keyservers everywhere        "Everything I am today, I owe to people whom it is now too late                                    to punish."

Response:

> I am looking for suggestions for dog breeds that might be best for > someone who has asthma. Also, what kinds of things should be done to > make the dog less of a problem to people with allergies? > Thank you > – Sneezy

Hi Sneezy, If you (or a family member) have tested positive for an allergy to dogs, then you are probably going to have problems no matter what breed you choose.  However, my niece is highly allergic to dogs, has asthma that requires daily treatment and does quite well with poodles as long as they are bathed weekly (without fail). My son and I both have allergies and asthma, but did NOT test positive on allergy tests for dogs or cats and aren’t adversely affected by either our two cats or collie.  We were lucky as they are all well loved and established family members. Best of luck Patrice

Response:

I am looking for suggestions for dog breeds that might be best for someone who has asthma. Also, what kinds of things should be done to make the dog less of a problem to people with allergies? Thank you – Sneezy

Response:

Categories: Allergic Asthma

Question:

Yes. If you’re allergic to amoxicillin, there is about 4% chance you’re also allergic to Keflex and other antibiotics in that class (the cephalosporins). Dr Mark Wong (Australia) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->My 12 year old son recently took amoxicillin and broke out in hives >from it.  This weekend, he needed around of anitbiotics for an >infected toe, and the doctor gave him Keflex.  Within 4 hours of >starting this drug, he began to cough, he has cough varient asthma and >went back to the doctor for a round of prednisone.  We insisted the >antibiotic be changed, but the doc did think that the Keflex caused >the attack. Any one with experience or input here? Does his asthma >necklace need to be re-engraved, again??

Response:

I was taking amoxicillin for many years, and the benefits lessened greatly. I asked my Dr. to prescribe something else, he gave me Klaracid (500)  and I have felt the benefits since. Anything that helps is welcomed ! I am having blood tests at the moment, to try to find out why my toes on the right foot have turned dark mauve, and have swollen up… any thoughts on circulation problems related to asthma meds., or calcium treatments ?  The consultant is sure that it is related to the drugs… but not sure how …  What next, eh ?  Thanks in advance for any help.  Sheila. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> My 12 year old son recently took amoxicillin and broke out in hives infected toe, >Change doctors, now!  The chemical relationship between the >cephalasporins [keflex] and the cillans is well-known, >Chris Owens

Response:

I just had to respond to your mesage abot your son’s reaction to the antibiotic amoxicillin.  I break out in hives from it and  my doctor said I should stop taking it.  Worse than that i find I really getsick when taking Biaxin, almost  like  food poisining–diiaharrea and vomitig for as long as 24 hours.  So if that is ever prescribed for your  son, it might be likely is body chemistry will react like mine did.   julie

Response:

> My 12 year old son recently took amoxicillin and broke out in hives > from it.  This weekend, he needed around of anitbiotics for an > infected toe, and the doctor gave him Keflex.  Within 4 hours of > starting this drug, he began to cough, he has cough varient asthma and > went back to the doctor for a round of prednisone.  We insisted the > antibiotic be changed, but the doc did think that the Keflex caused > the attack. Any one with experience or input here? Does his asthma > necklace need to be re-engraved, again??

Change doctors, now!  The chemical relationship between the cephalasporins [keflex] and the cillans is well-known, well-documented, and it is inconcievable that a responsible doctor wouldn’t know it.  The PDR specifically states that keflex should not be given to people who have had an allergic reaction to the penicillan group. Chris Owens

Response:

About 10% of people allergic to penicillin will also be allergic to the cephalosporins, of which Keflex is one. If the reaction to penicillin is non-life threatening, like hives or rash, many doctors will go ahead and use the ceph’s. It was not unreasonable to prescribe Keflex at first but I do agree that he should have been wary of a cross reaction and reacted more suspiciously when your child’s asthma flared while on it. — Good Luck, CBI, M.D. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> My 12 year old son recently took amoxicillin and broke out in hives > from it.  This weekend, he needed around of anitbiotics for an > infected toe, and the doctor gave him Keflex.  Within 4 hours of > starting this drug, he began to cough, he has cough varient asthma and > went back to the doctor for a round of prednisone.  We insisted the > antibiotic be changed, but the doc did think that the Keflex caused > the attack. Any one with experience or input here? Does his asthma > necklace need to be re-engraved, again?? >Change doctors, now!  The chemical relationship between the >cephalasporins [keflex] and the cillans is well-known, well-documented, >and it is inconcievable that a responsible doctor wouldn’t know it.  The >PDR specifically states that keflex should not be given to people who >have had an allergic reaction to the penicillan group. >Chris Owens

Response:

My 12 year old son recently took amoxicillin and broke out in hives from it.  This weekend, he needed around of anitbiotics for an infected toe, and the doctor gave him Keflex.  Within 4 hours of starting this drug, he began to cough, he has cough varient asthma and went back to the doctor for a round of prednisone.  We insisted the antibiotic be changed, but the doc did think that the Keflex caused the attack. Any one with experience or input here? Does his asthma necklace need to be re-engraved, again??

Response:

I am not familiar with Keflex directly but I do know that there are certain types of antibiotics that cause my asthma to flare up.  I too have cough variant asthma.  An allergic reaction of course could cause the asthma flare.  My daughter ended up with erythema multiforme at the age of 2 from this med.  So we don’t give it to her anymore.  It is a skin reaction with large donut type rash, her feet and hands swelled up.   http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/cephalex.htm#Table of Contents: I hope the above link is helpful.  I use the www.rxlist.com all the time for med information. Lynn – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> My 12 year old son recently took amoxicillin and broke out in hives > from it.  This weekend, he needed around of anitbiotics for an > infected toe, and the doctor gave him Keflex.  Within 4 hours of > starting this drug, he began to cough, he has cough varient asthma and > went back to the doctor for a round of prednisone.  We insisted the > antibiotic be changed, but the doc did think that the Keflex caused > the attack. Any one with experience or input here? Does his asthma > necklace need to be re-engraved, again??

Response:

>My 12 year old son recently took amoxicillin and broke out in hives >from it.  This weekend, he needed around of anitbiotics for an >infected toe, and the doctor gave him Keflex.  Within 4 hours of

I BELIEVE that Keflex is in the class of antibiotics called cephalosporins [though I am not positive].  If it is, there is a certain percent of people who are cross-sensitive to penicillins and cephalosporins. I had an allergic reaction to a cephalosporin antibiotic that I took [Ceclor], and have therefore been banned my my MD from taking any cephaliosporins AND any penicillins because of the cross-sensitivity [as I recall it is something like 20%?? of those allergic to one are allergic to the other as well].  Aparently the compounds are rather similar to each other from an allergy POV. As for the asthma ID; I wear a medica alert breacelet.  When I reacted to the Ceclor, it was the first drug allergy i had, so we added allergic to cephalosporins and pcn? to my medic alert.  well, i now have allergies to some other drugs, so there is no room.  my medic alert now says:         see card         asthma/allergy         to seafood-fish         (carries epipen)         drug allergies and then it has my medic alert ID number.  the wallet card lists my meds and the actual drug and other allergies.  themost important stuff is on the medica alert, and if they can’t find my wallet card, they will know there are drug allergies they need to call about FIRST if they can.  medical personnel will also know that i have asthma, and that i have at least one set of life-threatening allergies [the epipen line, which is for the fish, but i have some other allergies that are now that bad :( ]. So, it may be an idea to get it updated, even if it is to say drug allergies and then have the wallet card and medic alert have the actual list of allergies. Hope this helps! SW.

Response:

Same here.  I’m allergic to penicillin and therefore my doctors won’t prescribe any drug in the cephalosporin family. Patrice – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->My 12 year old son recently took amoxicillin and broke out in hives >from it.  This weekend, he needed around of anitbiotics for an >infected toe, and the doctor gave him Keflex.  Within 4 hours of >I BELIEVE that Keflex is in the class of antibiotics called >cephalosporins [though I am not positive].  If it is, there is a >certain percent of people who are cross-sensitive to penicillins and >cephalosporins. >I had an allergic reaction to a cephalosporin antibiotic that I took >[Ceclor], and have therefore been banned my my MD from taking any >cephaliosporins AND any penicillins because of the cross-sensitivity >[as I recall it is something like 20%?? of those allergic to one are >allergic to the other as well].  Aparently the compounds are rather >similar to each other from an allergy POV. >As for the asthma ID; I wear a medica alert breacelet.  When I reacted >to the Ceclor, it was the first drug allergy i had, so we added >allergic to cephalosporins and pcn? to my medic alert.  well, i now >have allergies to some other drugs, so there is no room.  my medic >alert now says: > see card > asthma/allergy > to seafood-fish > (carries epipen) > drug allergies >and then it has my medic alert ID number.  the wallet card lists my >meds and the actual drug and other allergies.  themost important stuff >is on the medica alert, and if they can’t find my wallet card, they >will know there are drug allergies they need to call about FIRST if >they can.  medical personnel will also know that i have asthma, and >that i have at least one set of life-threatening allergies [the epipen >line, which is for the fish, but i have some other allergies that are >now that bad :( ]. >So, it may be an idea to get it updated, even if it is to say drug >allergies and then have the wallet card and medic alert have the >actual list of allergies. >Hope this helps! >SW.

Response:

Categories: General Asthma

Question:

Are there any cities known to be better than others for people with asthma?

Response:

Tammie-Lee<>< – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >  I know this isn’t a religious ng but the only one I know of, will be >      any cities known to be better than others for people with >      asthma?

Response:

> Are there any cities known to be better than others for people with asthma?

a lot depends on your triggers, I went looking for a city with low air pollution, few smokers, and short commutes to and from work. Money Magazine has a web site (sorry I forgot the address) that ranks 300 cities in the US according to air quality, cost of living, commute times, availabilty of heath care, etc. DeMoine IA was ranked as having the best air quality (unfortunately there were few jobs in my profession in that city.) Minneapolis looked good, so did San Fransico, but there was that absurd cost of living in San Fransico. -dja

Response:

Categories: Asthma Cure

Question:

Tea and asthma?  Tea is probably an old-fashioned cure for asthma.  Tea, depending on the kind, has caffiene in it. Caffeine is a methylxanthine – similar to theophylline…. — Kathie Sindt

Response:

I searched the Net for info, and found plenty of opinions about nutrasweet.  I don’t know how sound the facts are, but it sounds like some debate exists. Several problems relating to nutrasweet and effects on the nervous system were claimed.  In addition, I found a few references to respitory problems, too. Take it for what you want.  Use Alta Vista and do a search on "nutrasweet health" and you’ll see some of those articles. I figure as long is there’s some debate over it, I’ll drink iced tea instead. Er, any tea – asthma connection???? — Mark Johnsen Sacramento, CA "You’ll always miss 100% of the shots you don’t take."

Response:

Categories: Bronchial Asthma

Question:

Hi, My 6 year old son has had asthma since he was an infant. I run a support site for parents of kids with asthma, which includes a discussion board. It’s not commercial and there are other parents that visit regularly so you might find some assistance there. http://www.jacy.com/asthma/ Best wishes, Jeanne – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->Hello, >  This is my 1st post to this group.  I am concerned about my 5 year old >Son.<snip>

Response:

>Thanks for the Reply Tina… >   We will certainty bring this possibility up to our pediatrician.  How bad >does this condition render you?  Do you need any special medication to keep >it under control.  Thanks in advance for any additional info you can supply. >Bob

   I will reply personally to BellAtlantic with the added info. Although Bronchiectasis has symptoms very close to asthma, (close enough that the Docs thought it was asthma until after the pulmonary functions test I had; Asthma developed later) I don’t think it proper to reply at length about it at this NG. If however, anyone wishes to have more info on this subject, feel free to e-mail me and I will forward you the info on the disease.

Response:

We have been thru hell and back with my son who is 5 1/2 years old.  We just went up to Boston (I am from NJ) for our 4th pulmonary opinion.  I agree with others, get lots of info, ask many questions, go with your gut feeling and don’t give up on yourself or your son.  I f you are not comfortable with the docor, his opinion or your son’s care, look for another doctor. We are finding out that everything the dr.s told me my son grew out of, he hasn’t and that he really doesn’t have typical asthma but other problems that cause him to wheeze and cough. That his problems are rare with his age, but can keep occuring and some kids don’t outgrow.  He is one of them.  Keep your hope up and if you need to talk or have questions you can email me. Gina

Response:

Thanks for the Reply Tina…    We will certainty bring this possibility up to our pediatrician.  How bad does this condition render you?  Do you need any special medication to keep it under control.  Thanks in advance for any additional info you can supply. Bob – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >I think you may want to look into other possibilities. I had >bronchopneumonia at the same age as your son, the result of which was lung >scarring and bronchiectisis. >   Basically, my bronchial tubes became too wide, resulting in a "barking" >cough ( I think I sounded more like a seal ). Because of this, sputum tends >to stay in the lungs and cause episodes of bronchitis with almost every >cold! >   Mention it to the doc, it is a rare occurrence these days, but Pneumonia >is a big cause, and yes it is much like asthma ( the cough, wheeze, and >exasperation with colds). >   It is a small possibility, but worth checking out. >   Best of luck for you and your son! >Tina in Montreal

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >Hello, >  This is my 1st post to this group.  I am concerned about my 5 year old >Son.  He had Pneumonia approx 2 yrs ago and his cough never really left. It >subsided for a while but really never fully was gone.  He doesn’t cough >everyday and it’s not a fit of coughing, it’s just whenever he does cough >(which may be as little as once or twice a day, or more on other days and >somedays nothing) his cough sounds like a bark like croup.  He’s not sick >but the cough sounds like he has a very bad cold.  In May he’s started to >wheeze occassionly.  Can anyone lend advice on how to proceed in regard to >confirming if he has asthma.  One of our pediatricians wanted to give him an >inhaler and then changed his mind after a more detailed explanation of his >cough was given.  I do not want to start him on Ventolin or Preventol unless >necessary.  ( I was diagnosed with asthma after pheumonia when I was 36 ). >Anyway… We could really use some advice from the knowledgeable people who >frequent this group.

If your doctor is unsure what the problem is theny you should ask for a referral to a specalist. For many doctors prescribing a ‘rescue’ inhaler such as Proventil is one of the ‘rule of thumb’ tests they make in the diagnosis (if it relieves the symptoms then it tends to confirm the asthma diagnosis). It would be a good idea to get the prescription for the Proventil.  If he actually does have asthma, having a rescue inhaler available may literally turn into a lifesaver.

Response:

I think you may want to look into other possibilities. I had bronchopneumonia at the same age as your son, the result of which was lung scarring and bronchiectisis.    Basically, my bronchial tubes became too wide, resulting in a "barking" cough ( I think I sounded more like a seal ). Because of this, sputum tends to stay in the lungs and cause episodes of bronchitis with almost every cold!    Mention it to the doc, it is a rare occurrence these days, but Pneumonia is a big cause, and yes it is much like asthma ( the cough, wheeze, and exasperation with colds).    It is a small possibility, but worth checking out.    Best of luck for you and your son! Tina in Montreal – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >Hello, >  This is my 1st post to this group.  I am concerned about my 5 year old >Son.  He had Pneumonia approx 2 yrs ago and his cough never really left. It >subsided for a while but really never fully was gone.  He doesn’t cough >everyday and it’s not a fit of coughing, it’s just whenever he does cough >(which may be as little as once or twice a day, or more on other days and >somedays nothing) his cough sounds like a bark like croup.  He’s not sick >but the cough sounds like he has a very bad cold.  In May he’s started to >wheeze occassionly.  Can anyone lend advice on how to proceed in regard to >confirming if he has asthma.  One of our pediatricians wanted to give him an >inhaler and then changed his mind after a more detailed explanation of his >cough was given.  I do not want to start him on Ventolin or Preventol unless >necessary.  ( I was diagnosed with asthma after pheumonia when I was 36 ). >Anyway… We could really use some advice from the knowledgeable people who >frequent this group.

Response:

Bell Atlantic I wish you the best of luck–I started this saga when my duaghter was 7 months old–its not an esy one. The first thing you need to do is ask a lot of questions of your dr–find out as much info as he’s willing to give as to why the inhaler was stopped–and then ask more. Keep records–keep track of your sons cough, how it sounds, when he has it, etc.  Pay attention to where he is and what he’s been doing. Don’t be afraid to get a second opinion–or even a third or a fourth. The barking cough, and the wheezing, as well as his not ever really getting over the cough or signs which may indicate ashtma. Keep on top of  it and never hesiste to ask questions–if you’re not comfortable with the answers, let the dr know and don’t hesistate to find another. Lesa – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >Hello, >  This is my 1st post to this group.  I am concerned about my 5 year old >Son.  He had Pneumonia approx 2 yrs ago and his cough never really left. It >subsided for a while but really never fully was gone.  He doesn’t cough >everyday and it’s not a fit of coughing, it’s just whenever he does cough >(which may be as little as once or twice a day, or more on other days and >somedays nothing) his cough sounds like a bark like croup.  He’s not sick >but the cough sounds like he has a very bad cold.  In May he’s started to >wheeze occassionly.  Can anyone lend advice on how to proceed in regard to >confirming if he has asthma.  One of our pediatricians wanted to give him an >inhaler and then changed his mind after a more detailed explanation of his >cough was given.  I do not want to start him on Ventolin or Preventol unless >necessary.  ( I was diagnosed with asthma after pheumonia when I was 36 ). >Anyway… We could really use some advice from the knowledgeable people who >frequent this group.

Response:

Hello,   This is my 1st post to this group.  I am concerned about my 5 year old Son.  He had Pneumonia approx 2 yrs ago and his cough never really left.  It subsided for a while but really never fully was gone.  He doesn’t cough everyday and it’s not a fit of coughing, it’s just whenever he does cough (which may be as little as once or twice a day, or more on other days and somedays nothing) his cough sounds like a bark like croup.  He’s not sick but the cough sounds like he has a very bad cold.  In May he’s started to wheeze occassionly.  Can anyone lend advice on how to proceed in regard to confirming if he has asthma.  One of our pediatricians wanted to give him an inhaler and then changed his mind after a more detailed explanation of his cough was given.  I do not want to start him on Ventolin or Preventol unless necessary.  ( I was diagnosed with asthma after pheumonia when I was 36 ). Anyway… We could really use some advice from the knowledgeable people who frequent this group.

Response:

Categories: Asthma Children

Question:

My twelve year old son has asthma. Occasionally, it’s quite severe. His school will not allow the children to keep their inhalers with them and so all inhalers are kept in the nurse’s office. I worry about this because I know how quickly an attack can hit. We live in Arkansas. I don’t really know what I can do to change school policy. I know that all schools are concerned with drugs … but asthmatics need their medication immediately (I know, I have asthma, too). Any suggestions on what I can do? The solution I’ve been using (which now has us in trouble with the school and the state) is to keep my son home with me if he’s having any asthma related problems. This way I can keep a close eye on him and make certain that medication is immediately available. It’s also a way for me to make the decision on weather to rush to the asthma specialist’s office for a breathing treatment. I don’t think the school personnel would know what to look for … not even the nurse. But as I said, we’re in trouble because of too many absences. And yet, I can’t take the risk of sending him to school on borer-line days. What do you recommend?

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > My twelve year old son has asthma. Occasionally, it’s quite severe. His > school will not allow the children to keep their inhalers with them and so > all inhalers are kept in the nurse’s office. I worry about this because I > know how quickly an attack can hit. We live in Arkansas. I don’t really know > what I can do to change school policy. I know that all schools are concerned > with drugs … but asthmatics need their medication immediately (I know, I > have asthma, too). Any suggestions on what I can do? The solution I’ve been > using (which now has us in trouble with the school and the state) is to keep > my son home with me if he’s having any asthma related problems. This way I > can keep a close eye on him and make certain that medication is immediately > available. It’s also a way for me to make the decision on weather to rush to > the asthma specialist’s office for a breathing treatment. I don’t think the > school personnel would know what to look for … not even the nurse. But as > I said, we’re in trouble because of too many absences. And yet, I can’t take > the risk of sending him to school on borer-line days. What do you recommend?

Certainly a 12-yr old asthmatic should have the right to carry his inhaler with him to school. Here is a link to ASTHMA AND THE SCHOOLCHILD from AAAAI: http://www.aaaai.org/patpub/resource/publicat/tips/tip19.html Excerpt: "Medications at School Taking medications at school may be very difficult, since most children with asthma want to hide their need for medication. Also, poorly informed school authorities sometimes make it impossible for children to take their medication. In other cases, some children refuse to go to another part of the school building (nurse’s or secretary’s office) to take their medication. School officials and parents must create an environment that shows the child with asthma that it is okay to take medication in school. With physician and parental approval, an asthmatic child should be allowed to carry metered-dose inhalers (MDI) with him/her at all times and use them as appropriate. The individual needs of each child with asthma must be addressed." Here is a link to the 1997 Expert Panel Report on Asthma: http://www.ama-assn.org/special/asthma/treatmnt/guide/guidelin/comp3/… "School Issues The clinician should prepare a written asthma management plan for the student’s school (see figure 4-7) that includes the following information: an action plan for handling exacerbations (including the clinician’s recommendation regarding self-administration of medication and plans to ensure prompt, reliable access to medications); recommendations for long-term-control medications and prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB), if appropriate; and identification of those factors that make the student’s asthma worse so the school may help the student avoid exposure. It is preferable to schedule daily, long-term medications so that they are not taken at school, even if this results in unequal dosing intervals throughout the day. However, in school districts that have more comprehensive school nurse coverage, children who would benefit from close supervision to promote adherence may be given medications at school. In this way, daily medication can be administered and patient education can be supplemented most days of the week. Students with asthma often require medication during school to treat acute symptoms or to prevent EIB that may develop during physical education class, school recess, or organized sports. Reliable, prompt access to medication is essential, but it may be difficult because of school rules that preclude the child from carrying medications. The National Asthma Education and Prevention Program and several member organizations have adopted resolutions that endorse allowing students to carry and self-administer medications when the physician and parent consider this appropriate. It may be helpful for some children to have a compressor-driven nebulizer available at the school. " You might try contacting Mothers of Asthmatics for advice. See http://www.podi.com/health/aanma/ Phone 800-878-4403 Other thoughts are to contact other parents in your school with children with asthma, contact the PTA, find out if a note from your doctor would let your child keep his inhaler with him. A last resort would be legal action, but I don’t think this should be necessary. There is a question of child endangerment; also the ADA, Americans with Disabilites Act may apply which requires appropriate accomodation. But make sure your child’s asthma is well controlled. He should be using a Peak Flow Meter to monitor lung function, and adjusting meds per Action Plan if he doesn’t stay in green (>80% PB) The rescue inhaler (albuterol) should rarely be needed, but never the less should be carried on his person just in case. Ellis

Response:

> My twelve year old son has asthma. Occasionally, it’s quite severe. His > school will not allow the children to keep their inhalers with them and so > all inhalers are kept in the nurse’s office. I worry about this because I > know how quickly an attack can hit. We live in Arkansas. I don’t really know > what I can do to change school policy. I know that all schools are concerned > with drugs … but asthmatics need their medication immediately (I know, I > have asthma, too). Any suggestions on what I can do?

Contact your local American Lung Association office and ask about the ‘Open Airways for Schools’ program.  More information on this can be found at:http://www.lungusa.org/noframes/learn/asthma/astopen.html

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > My twelve year old son has asthma. Occasionally, it’s quite severe. His > school will not allow the children to keep their inhalers with them and so > all inhalers are kept in the nurse’s office. I worry about this because I > know how quickly an attack can hit. We live in Arkansas. I don’t really know > what I can do to change school policy. I know that all schools are concerned > with drugs … but asthmatics need their medication immediately (I know, I > have asthma, too). Any suggestions on what I can do? The solution I’ve been > using (which now has us in trouble with the school and the state) is to keep > my son home with me if he’s having any asthma related problems. This way I > can keep a close eye on him and make certain that medication is immediately > available. It’s also a way for me to make the decision on weather to rush to > the asthma specialist’s office for a breathing treatment. I don’t think the > school personnel would know what to look for … not even the nurse. But as > I said, we’re in trouble because of too many absences. And yet, I can’t take > the risk of sending him to school on borer-line days. What do you recommend?

What I did: 1.  Gave my ward her inhaler, and told her if she was having trouble breathing to excuse herself to the bathroom and use it . . . otherwise to keep it out of sight.  If the inhaler didn’t work, she was to call 911, and get an ambulance to transport her to the hospital, where they had my permanent treatment permission on file. 2.  Filed suit against the school board for endangering my ward’s health.  We never went to court, as they figured out that they would lose. 3.  Made an appointment with my ward’s teacher at the beginning of every school year for the express purpose of discussing asthma, it’s causes, treatment, etc., and making sure we were all on the same track.  If the teacher wasn’t willing to cooperate, we got a change of teachers. Basically, you beat the school system with a persistent stick. Good luck. Chris Owens

Response:

Well, I had similar problems iwth my daughters but our current school system is much better. 1.  Make an appointment with your school facilitator or counselor to have your child evaluated and a 501accommodation plan done.  This can include carrying of the inhaler or a plan such as the teacher keeping it in her desk.  You may have to have an inhaler for every teacher and every class you child attends.  This will also give you flexiblility with the absencetism policy.   2.  get educated with concerns of educating the handicapped or chronicly ill child.  Try you local Parents educating parents group…this wil educated you on all the laws and regulations about what you can  and can not do.  Will, make you look very good when you go in with your demads if you know the law.   3.  Hold you school responsible for you child’s health and put in in writing.  Explain to them the current plan you have for your child and denial of access to any part of this plan will result in legal action. 4.  Have you doctor write up a plan of action for you child. 5.  Talk to the child’s teachers and make them responsible also.  Most teachers don’t want to take the responsiblility for your childs health so will let the child have his inhaler.   6.  Last resort is the press…talk to your local newspaper or radio and TV stations and bring you case to the public light.  Especially if the child gets ill at school once and requires ambulance transport.   Good luck. The first approach worked for me.  We are fortunate to have a good school system.  I even keep tylenol and pepto bismal in the office for my daughter at my request along with her asthma meds.  She has a good teachers and health aide.  They have been very sensitive to her needs.   So far this year we have had to problems.

Response:

Hi, My personal experience was some time ago (about 12 years), my youngest daughter has asthma. She had a bad attack one day and mentioned her problems to her Gym teacher. Well the teacher did not take the incident seriously and told my daughter she would have to continue until the period was over. Well things got worse but fortunately the nurse was not far from the gym. BTW, the  administration, nurse and all the teachers(including this gym teacher) had been informed of her asthma condition. After this incident, I requested a formal meeting with the superintendent and principle. We met and I informed them that my daughter understands her asthma  and when was having a problem, she would inform the teacher then the drugs were to be administered by her or the nurse. I did document my instructions to be placed in my child’s files. I then requested a monitored meeting with the gym teacher, superintendent and principle. At this meeting I requested that the teacher be made aware of the asthma situation and she was not to make a medical decision with regard to my child. She attempted to state that My daughter was using the asthma as an excuse. I remember telling her that my daughter knew when she was having an attack and that if indeed she was attempting to get out of something because she  was having a breathing problem then by all means make certain she is taken to see the nurse. I told them all that I was to be called whenever an incident occurred! The administration was very understanding and followed my instructions to the letter. I did have few problems with the gym teacher but a few meetings with the principle took care of these. I found that the more you educate the better it will be for the child. Educators are not medically trained, so if you go to the school administration with all the necessary information to answer any questions. If not just to provide details of what should be done in case of a major event/attack. Sorry to get so winded but after reading your post, it brought back some rather unpleasant memories! Remember one thing, most teachers are concerned about the well being of their charges, not just educating them. — Regards and God Speed, Gary W. Sandvik : My twelve year old son has asthma. Occasionally, it’s quite severe. His : school will not allow the children to keep their inhalers with them and so : all inhalers are kept in the nurse’s office. I worry about this because I : know how quickly an attack can hit. We live in Arkansas. I don’t really know : what I can do to change school policy. I know that all schools are concerned : with drugs … but asthmatics need their medication immediately (I know, I : have asthma, too). Any suggestions on what I can do? The solution I’ve been : using (which now has us in trouble with the school and the state) is to keep : my son home with me if he’s having any asthma related problems. This way I : can keep a close eye on him and make certain that medication is immediately : available. It’s also a way for me to make the decision on weather to rush to : the asthma specialist’s office for a breathing treatment. I don’t think the : school personnel would know what to look for … not even the nurse. But as : I said, we’re in trouble because of too many absences. And yet, I can’t take : the risk of sending him to school on borer-line days. What do you recommend? : : :

Response:

I second the suggestion to send the inhaler to school, tell the child to excuse themselves to the restroom, and use it there.  If He doesn’t feel well within a reasonable amount of time, have him call home.  My daughter did this and it worked.  She had an over-reactive teacher who would make a big fuss every time she needed the inhaler.  This was when we were first learning about controlling episodes, etc.  A twelve year old should be able to use their own discretion and know when they do and don’t need to use their inhalers.  good luck. A Mom Who’s been there

Response:

Categories: General Asthma

Question:

I’ve also been diagnosed with Sleep Apnea and do use a CPAP machine. I’m not sure that it had any effect on my asthma.  I was diagnosed with the asthma about a year ago and the sleep apnea diagnosis came last July.  I’ve actually gotten better since July (was in constant decline before that) but I think that is the Accolate I started taking at that time. I do use a humidifer with my CPAP and it might be making the asthma a bit worse but I can’t really tell yet.  It does keep my sinuses moist so I am having less problem with sinusitus therefore the asthma is responding favorably to that.  In all it’s probably a wash. I did notice at first that the CPAP did make my lungs feel strangely. It was as if they had more air in them than they were accustomed to having.  That feeling is gone now. Loki – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Has anyone in the group been diagnosed with Sleep Apnea (in addition to > asthma) and been placed on a CPAP machine? > I’m curious how other asthmatics respond to CPAP.  My wife has had > improvments at night, but her daytimes are actually worse > (breathlessness, etc.). > Anyone out there with any experience in the above? > -Russ White

Response:

Has anyone in the group been diagnosed with Sleep Apnea (in addition to asthma) and been placed on a CPAP machine? I’m curious how other asthmatics respond to CPAP.  My wife has had improvments at night, but her daytimes are actually worse (breathlessness, etc.). Anyone out there with any experience in the above? -Russ White

Response:

I have sinus conjestion problems, mainly in the winter time and I also use a CPAP machine for minor sleep anea problems, running my machine at a low pressure.  I have noticed that while using my CPAP unit, my conjection is much better and I have contributed that, rightly or wrongly, to the filiter that is located in the machine.  In fact I have noticed that early on a winter morning I will often wake up felling fine, and within a few minutes after removing the CPAP mask I will experience a sneezing spell associated with unusual conjection.  As the day wears on, and upon taking some medicine, and getting out of the house, I will feel better. Good luck, Al

Response:

Categories: General Asthma

Question:

Where can I get information about –  health insurance for asthmatics, and/or –  insurance advocacy groups? Thank you, PJ Dillard

Response:

This is a toughy. I’ve learned that I must go to work for a large company (not a mom and pop operation) so I can be covered under the big umbrella health ins. policy. Otherwise, my asthma is a pre-existing condition and they won’t touch it. Jimmy Mac

Response: