John’s account is adapted from forum posts he wrote between 2008 and 2011. His diagnosis and treatment changed over that period; this is a historical personal account, not current medical advice.
I had asthma throughout my life. In 2007, I became unwell with what was first thought to be an asthma attack and a possible partially collapsed lung. The symptoms kept returning, and I missed work several times.
After further tests, I was diagnosed with allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). I had chest discomfort, mucus and fatigue, and even gentle exercise became difficult. I found it hard to know whether each new episode was asthma, an infection or something else.
I began treatment and had periods when I felt better, followed by setbacks. My blood tests and scans helped my doctors monitor what was happening. I also found support through an online forum, where other people understood the uncertainty and day-to-day impact of living with a long-term lung condition.
In 2011, after assessment at the National Aspergillosis Centre, my diagnosis was changed from ABPA to severe asthma with fungal sensitisation (SAFS). I felt that treatment with itraconazole made a substantial difference to my breathing and general wellbeing. At the same time, my experience showed me how difficult it can be to separate the effects of asthma, infection and treatment.
My story comes from a particular period in my life. Diagnoses and treatment plans are individual, and my experience cannot show what another person should expect.
John B
Sandbach, UK
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