- Aspergillosis
- Interviews
Mandy's interview
How did all start?
I was diagnosed and have been treated for asthma since I was 5 years old, (46 years ago).
Over the years I have developed more of an awareness of my condition and five years ago I had to persistently visit the GP as I had a continuous series of chest infections. He decided to finally send me to see a pulmonary consultant. This consultant was excellent. She ordered a raft of tests, which came back revealing I had ABPA, Bronchiecstasis, Hib, mild asthma and possibly cystic fibrosis.
This was startling to me, but also a relief, because I knew there had to be something else wrong with me.
I had genetic screening for cystic fibrosis, which revealed I am a carrier, but don’t actually have it.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
Yes, it took years for the medics to send me to a specialist
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Carbocisteine is the best drug I take, combined with my inhalers.
I have found it useful to be in touch with the chest Physio’s and they monitor my infections
What have been your biggest difficulties?
How rough I feel when I get an infection.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
Nothing has changed
What things have you stopped doing?
Nothing
What do you think about the future?
I try not to think about things getting worse
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Do what you feel like doing
