Methacholine test on Monday...what to expect?

[Titchou]

Yes, the meds for any type of asthma are the same: inhaled steroid, spiriva or singulair as a daily med and albuterol or naponex as a rescue med. I would imagine most people have non-allergic asthma, although even it can be exacerbated by allergies. Mine is that way. Since my allergies are pretty well under control, it's rare that they cause a problem with my asthma. I assume you're now going to a pulmonologist? If not, you really should.

Good luck.

[Gabby2007]

Some people have asthma that is triggered by things like acid reflux and chronic sinus drip - I do, so I also take meds for those conditions - helps to control the asthma.

I use xopenex as a rescuer - this is newer, a bit more pricey than the older rescuers. But it doesn't seem to have the side effects of the original albuterol.

I also use a long acting bronchodialtor - Serevent. So...your doc may have to experiment to find meds that work for you...

(I just had a mental picture of a patient with a methacholine induced asthma attack, gasping for air, while the technician cold heartedly takes notes..."ahh. she's still alive. hmmm. how many more drugs should I give her?" It really isn't like that at all. Honestly. Just be sure to follow the instructions about backing off on any meds you are using - you need to do that for a period of time before the test).

[Dark Stranger]

Thanks for all the information again.

Unfortunately, the test I was supposed to have today never happened. I scheduled my appointment three weeks ago, only to find out when I arrived this morning that there was no one available in the pulmonary lab to do the test . Also, there was a conflict because my registration paperwork said NO methacholine testing (PCP test instead, whatever that is), and my prescription said specifically methacholine testing, NO PCP.

Soooo, I have to wait another few weeks before I can get treatment. Thankfully, I'll be going back home for my school break and I'll be able to go to a competent hospital. I'm so glad what I have is not severe, because I would be SOL right now.