Monday, June 27, 2005

A NEW REGIME

I'm back on steroids for the next five days. While I was in the doctor's office, she happened to mention that going on a high-protein diet might reduce the weight gain that usually results. I'd never heard that before, but it makes some sense. So, for the next few days, I'm going to severely limit my carb intake.

I'll also be trying a different medication, one that replaces my current preventers. It should be easier, taking one, rather than two.

I also had another pulmonary function test. I'd been monitoring my peak flow; while low in the morning, I hadn't realized just how bad my situation was. The PF test showed that I was worse than I'd been since December. Hence, the steroids.

The extreme heat and humidity are the major difficulty for me right now. It makes breathing a struggle. I have the same problem in a steam room - I can't take it for more than a minute or so before having to leave.

The high ozone levels have also caused my functioning to experience a decline. Alas, only an atmospheric improvement (likely if a cold front moves in, which its due to) will change that.

Sunday, June 26, 2005

BREATHING UPDATE

UPDATE:


June 26, 2005

I'm still recovering from my last asthma attack. I'm due to see the doctor tomorrow, which should help.

The weather has been working against me, since it's been both very hot (around 90) and relatively humid. Couple that with some borderline ozone levels, and you have the prescription for a sub-normal breathing situation.

It's not helped by the weeds - see below.



The highs and lows of the last month

Posted by Hello

Wednesday, June 01, 2005

YOU'VE GOT TO TRY THIS!

I've been using a program called Asthma Assistant, which is designed to help asthmatics manage their condition. It's been VERY easy to use, with loads of useful features, and, perhaps best of all, it's free!



The above image is the main screen. You'll notice that it shows a monthly calendar, a rating section in the lower left for your daily stats, and a clickable main section. The main section (right side) lets you enter your morning and evening peak flow, select the appropriate symptoms, note whether your activity level was affected, what meds you had to use, and give a general rating to the day.

The following screenshots show some of the reports you can generate, and print.







I've been using the program for a month, and have found it to be VERY useful. I'll be printing out monthly charts, and taking them to my doctor's visits.

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