Back pain after and asthma attack

[Heidi164]

2 weeks ago I had a huge asthma attack- I was admitted to hospital for 1 week and told that my lungs had almost completely deflated - I had to stay on  oxygen for 5 days and nebs every 2 hours.  A chest xray showed that I had a slight infection on the lungs.  I was put on steroids and antibiotics and then allowed home after 7 days. Since being home my breathing seems fine but I do have some dull pains in my back that are noticeable all the time but a little worse when breathing in -  particularly on my left side just behind my heart.  I finished the course of steroids 3 days ago and now have to use a seretide inhaler twice a day and ventolin 4 times a day. I have a follow up appointment in 3 weeks time but am still feeling very tired and although not breathless need to catch my breath if I talk too much.  I have also noticed that I don't breathe very deeply and every now and then seem to miss a breath. It is quite scary and I feel a bit panicky about having another attack as this one came out of the blue and was very serious.  Can anyone advise the best way for me to build up my lungs without overdoing it??

[Heidi164]

Thanks for your advice - I am a bit anxious - I also feel like a bit giddy at times which is probably another sign of this.
Regards
Heidi

[National Jewish Health]

The severe asthma attack you had was clearly, pretty scary, and from your description, has left you understandably anxious about your breathing.  You might want to give some careful thought to the circumstances surrounding your asthma worsening, especially with regard to environmental exposures, including both inhalants and food, especially shellfish.

The dull back pain is probably musculoskeletal pain, related to labored breathing, during the attack and nothing to worry about.

It would be good to get a follow-up chest x-ray to confirm that the "slight infection" has resolved and your x-ray is now clear.  Assuming that your asthma is now under good control and your chest x-ray is now clear, the need to "catch your breath" and your awareness of not being able to "breathe very deeply" are probably a reflection of anxiety.

It could be helpful for you to monitor your breathing with a peak flow meter.  You should check with your doctor on this.  The best way to "build up your lungs" is to engage in a regular aerobic exercise program.