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Avatar universal

Where to start?

I was diagnosed with asthma about 15 years ago. I have been well (no need for asthma meds) for about 5 years. Ok, maybe a little in denial because I have always had frequent lingering colds, trouble doing exercise, out of breath a lot, sinus infections every 6 weeks, missing work... In the last ten years I have been unable to fly in a plane without having intense sinus pain during descent followed by an infection within 24 hours.  

However I have been more ill than usual since September of this year. I have had a cough that just won't go away (getting worse every week), as well as a chronic sinus infection that won't go away at all with antibiotics (about 4-5 different prescriptions since september). I am back on my asthma medication, but even that doesn't seem to help. I am coughing to the point of vomitting 5-6 times a day. I have no appetite and have lost 10 pounds in about a month. Tightness in my chest. Coughing is worse at night. Pain in my sinus to the point of not being able to sleep on my side or tummy because the pressure in very strong (yup, I already know I have a sinus infection). I have a nasal spray and wash as well. I don't use them - I have an aversion to sticking anything up my nose. I know - no excuse.  I want to be healthy again, so I know I have to get on top of this nose aversion quickly.  I have had pneumonia once in the past 3 years, and I felt like I had pneumonia again just this past mid-January (basically, feeling like a 73 year old smoker). I am waiting for results on my X-Ray (hopefully ruling out pneumonia).

The doc is sending me to see an ENT specialist (Ear, nose, throat specialist- appointment scheduled for end of April), as well as for a CT scan of my sinus...as well as going for a spirometry test. What is she looking for?  Just my asthma or something else? I admit I am a little nervous. Reassurance greatly appreciated. Please don't chastise me about the nose aversion. I am actively trying to use the nose meds.
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Avatar universal
By the way, I spoke with my doctor today who confirmed that I do have X-Ray evidence of chronic sinusitis. The rest of the testing will confirm more details. Story to follow...
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Avatar universal
Wow! I would have never guessed that. I'll look it up and follow up with appointments for sure.  I'll also share results as you've suggested as others can benefit from the information.  In the meantime, I just got a note today from my doctor's office to come in and discuss my X-Ray results (she was checking my sinus for infection, and lungs for pneumonia). I find that odd given she and I both agreed she'd give me results over the phone given my long drive from out of town. Unless it's an administrative mistake and the person taking in the results didn't consult my doctor and just sent me the notice automatically as they usually do when results are positive. I hope that's the case. Anyway crossing my fingers.  I have to say I am a little worried about chronic bronchitis or COPD in the back of my mind. It's been 5 straight months, but years of being unwell on and off - but mostly on (I'm finally starting to admit it).  However, your lead may be easier for me to cope with. I find that it easier knowing what I am dealing with. Then I can do a whole bunch of research in order to take control of my situation.
Thanks for your input (and your support).
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Avatar universal
just so you know if you dont research it,, fungal infections (valley fever,and histoplasmosis) can infect then lay dormant for years before causing a person to become symptomatic... so most likely they will check for fungual issues. The good news is , antifungal oral medicines can control these infections beautifully nowdays , but liver function checks need to be run because they are hard on the body over time.

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Avatar universal
No, shes looking for a deep seated infection,,, it may require newer class drugs to get rid of tihs since you've been symptomatic for so long. The 'asthma' may actually be a misdiagnosis of a fungal infection deep in the lungs or the bones of the sinus's themselves... that would be my best guess anyways. Definatly do the appts because otherwise your just going to get sicker... and please let us know what they find because iv seen several people with your same symptoms posting on here in the last couple of weeks,, so what your doctors find may help others head in a direction that brings them relief as well.

*Bows in apprication*
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