Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Suggest Treatment For Severe Coughing Spells In An Elderly Asthma Patient
Question: My sister (78 yrs old) has severe coughing spells, longtime asthma sufferer. The cough seems to be getting worse and she is reluctant - or slow to seek dr's help. she has a appt with pulmonary specialist in 2 weeks, but I am worried. The cough is so bad, and I'm wondering if she is also suffering from lack of oxygen?
Brief Answer:
Stong cough not necessarily indicates a severe infection
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for using HCM to post your question.
I read it carefully and I understand your concern.
The intensity of cough it is not an indication of a severe problem.
On the other side a shortness of breath, a chest pain and a bad general condition is.
She needs to measure her oxygenation and peak flow meter in order for us to understand if she needs an acute treatment of asthma. She will also be better by using Salbutamol inhaler, if she has one at home- please advice her to use as needed and maximum every 4 hours.
Hope this is helpful.
Let me know if you need more clarifications.
Regards,
Dr.Papaqako
Stong cough not necessarily indicates a severe infection
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for using HCM to post your question.
I read it carefully and I understand your concern.
The intensity of cough it is not an indication of a severe problem.
On the other side a shortness of breath, a chest pain and a bad general condition is.
She needs to measure her oxygenation and peak flow meter in order for us to understand if she needs an acute treatment of asthma. She will also be better by using Salbutamol inhaler, if she has one at home- please advice her to use as needed and maximum every 4 hours.
Hope this is helpful.
Let me know if you need more clarifications.
Regards,
Dr.Papaqako
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
