I need some good nursing advice

[ana115]

I have been very sick with bronchitis for over 4 weeks now, and my lungs have reacted badly with it. I have started fainting after coughing spells. someone called it reactive airway disease, although I don't have asthma. I am on all kinds of drugs...my third round of anitbiotics, prednisone, albuterol nebulizer, inhalers, you name it, and still my lungs don't want to seem to relax.

I'm so tired of being sick, I'm starting to feel I will never get over this and I can't help feeling scared.

Any advice on what more I can do to get better?

Thanks

[old rural nurse, RN]

How about getting a second opinion. If you are young and otherwise healthy, with no history of lung problems, thats a long time to be ill.

[rpbear]

I argee. If what you are doing has not worked so far then time to try something else. That is a long time to be sick. Has there been any improvement? Talk to you MD, or get a second opinion.

Good Luck!

[sharann, BSN, RN]

Ana,

Sorry to hear you are feeling so poorly. I agree with a 2nd opinion, although I have had bronchitis twice in my life, and remember coughing for weeks and weeks (at night was worst). However, I must say that I was not resting as I should have. I really believe we need to rest to heal. REALLY rest, at home in bed or on couch. Get checked out again though. Probably is viral if ABX's not working.

Gett well soon:p

[LauraLou]

Have you considered Valley Fever? It is very common in AZ. It is a respiratory disease caused by exposure to fungus spores that are found in the desert. I believe there is a skin test that can be done. Fatigue, cough, fever, muscle or joint pain and chest pain are among the symptoms. You should ask your doctor about it.

I hope you feel better soon!