I am a 59 year old female who started life without the trouble of asthma or any other respiratory problem. Only troubled with mild eczema as a child. My parents did not smoke but Grandad did. I have 3 siblings so car journeys were cramped; I sat in the back behind Grandad who smoked with the window open. I was diagnosed in the early ‘80s with Asthma (mild) and prescribed an inhaler which I rarely used. I have an allergy to Dust and Kiwi fruit (Gooseberries in general!) I continued to have bouts of mild asthma when forced to exert myself! (Not being very sporty these were usually running for a bus!) or if I suffered from a cold; they usually caused chest infections but not very frequently.
In the late 90’s I moved to the Edinburgh area and still did not trouble the doctor with my Asthma. Then one year, about 5 years ago I started to have one chest infection after another with little time in between infections. I was prescribed courses of steroids and anti-biotics which sometimes worked, sometimes did not. I was prescribed medication for Allergic Asthma and it amazed me by stopping the chest infections for nearly 18 months, and I felt lots stronger.
About 18 months ago I started to feel heavy in my chest, around my collar bone area and in my throat. I couldn’t cough anything up; my breathing caused a “rattle” which was annoying, sleeping was not successful. I had to sit up to sleep. After breathing tests, chest x-rays, MRI scans, pressure test for my swallowing (Manometer), I was diagnosed as having Bronchiectasis. Following the pressure test I was diagnosed as having poor muscle tone in one side of my throat which is now controlled with medication.
What was bronchiectasis? I’d never heard of it although I was pleased it had a name and not just ‘my cough!’ I was concerned that there is no cure for this condition (YET!) and it is a manage only condition. I have decided to be positive and control my condition. Remembering to take my medication and reducing the number of times I need anti-biotics so that when I do need them they are more effective. I intend to be as healthy as I can so that I do not need to take daily anti-biotics too, although I continue with regular other medication.
I have often wondered why me? My former career as a baker/pastry chef may be the cause, dusty floury atmospheres, as well as blaming poor Grandad and his smoking; I have never smoked.
Last Reviewed: October 2019