Allergy Management

by Linda
(Australia)

My health problem is unusual. Therefore, there isn't a lot of information on what to do about it. I'm allergic to cigarette smoke and to a lesser degree, incense, and recently fly spray.

The problem is so serious I take asthma medication six times a day as a preventative. It gives me a little more time to escape the chemical hazard. A couple of days ago I walked past a smoker on the street. I held my breath but the chemicals still got on my clothes and hair.

When that happens my lungs and throat swell and my lungs start filling with white phlegm. It's like drowning. I can't get enough oxygen. My skin itches and my eyes get sore and red.

Then, within a few minutes, I feel as though I've been running uphill. All my muscles feel weak and exhausted. Sometimes it's so bad I can't think. I get disoriented and forget why I'm feeling so bad. Then I want to lie down and go to sleep. But I'm afraid I'd never wake up. This problem has got worse over time. I have to find some help.

I had a recommendation from my doctor to an anaphylactic specialist (anaphylaxis - A life-threatening allergic reaction that involves the entire body) but I was in the hospital on the day of the appointment and couldn't go. Also, the town he works in seems to have a lot of smokers and it would be dangerous for me to go there. I can't even be in the same room as someone who has smoke on their clothes.

My Goals:
To go back to my doctor for another referral.
To try and get one to a doctor who works in a healthier town
To try and get a job where I won't be near any smokers.

Dear Linda,

Thank you for sharing your health goals. I can really see how frustrating it must be! I think your solutions sound totally realistic and do-able.

When I finally found a good doctor, he helped me to get my emergency health situations under control.

Now I am making consistent progress applying the health basics to further support my general health and maintain an improved level of health and well-being.

Sincerely,
BB

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