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I Have A History Of Stress Induced Asthma, And Following
Question: I have a history of stress induced asthma, and following a very stressful period combined with cutting a large lawn twice without respiratory protection, I had a severe allergy attack that progressed to asthma and a lung infection. I have been taking prednisone for about three weeks as well as antibiotics and albuterol with a breathing machine. I am nearly tapered off of the prednisone, the infection seems almost resolved, and the asthma is getting a little better. My main problem now is severe laryngitis that I think was caused by all of the prior coughing. I need to get my voice back as talking is how I make my living - and not being able to talk increases my stress and exacerbates the asthma. I left a message with my doctor and he prescribed more prednisone - but I have read that prednisone can actually cause laryngitis. I also read contradictory information, i.e. use decongestants / don't use decongestants, gargle with cayenne / don't eat spicy food, etc.. I need to be able to talk well again ASAP!
Brief Answer:
Laryngitis can be due to side effect of albuterol.
Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your question on Ask a doctor forum.
I can understand your concern.
I have gone through the detailed history you have given.
About Prednisone causing laryngitis, it is true.
Actually prednisone is corticosteroid. It is immunosuppressive drug. So patient becomes more vulnerable for infection.
But immunosuppression occurs only after 1.5 months.
Similarly, it is potent anti inflammatory drug helps in reducing inflammation. So also given in laryngitis for shorter period and smaller dose.
But better to give it along with antibiotic.
About decongestant, you should use like antihistamine drugs (levocetrizine or fexofenadine).
Along with medicines, voice rest, warm water gargles, avoiding oily and spicy food etc are needed.
Usual period of recovery is 2-3 weeks.
Please let me know if you smoke.
I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.
Laryngitis can be due to side effect of albuterol.
Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your question on Ask a doctor forum.
I can understand your concern.
I have gone through the detailed history you have given.
About Prednisone causing laryngitis, it is true.
Actually prednisone is corticosteroid. It is immunosuppressive drug. So patient becomes more vulnerable for infection.
But immunosuppression occurs only after 1.5 months.
Similarly, it is potent anti inflammatory drug helps in reducing inflammation. So also given in laryngitis for shorter period and smaller dose.
But better to give it along with antibiotic.
About decongestant, you should use like antihistamine drugs (levocetrizine or fexofenadine).
Along with medicines, voice rest, warm water gargles, avoiding oily and spicy food etc are needed.
Usual period of recovery is 2-3 weeks.
Please let me know if you smoke.
I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.
Note: For further information on diet changes to reduce allergy symptoms or to boost your immunity, Ask here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Answered by
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