It's the time when we review the last year. Look at the good months and not so good months, changes and overall health through 2015.
An annual review is designed to look over all results of lung functions, blood tests, height and weight and admissions into hospital, and see how the last year has differed from others. We make plans for the future, possibly try new medication and make short and long term goals.
Just before Christmas I took a trip into hospital to do all the testing ready for my review in January. I saw my CF nurse and physiotherapist. I had to do many tests in the lung function box, such as blow out continuously before needing a breath, relaxed breathing and blow through a pressure valve to test resistance. When looking at the results at my review, we can tell how clear and open the bronchi are, and that the airways are not tightening or collapsing when coughing. Also, any troughs in the diagram can indicate wheeziness or possible infection.
Next I had an X-Ray. I sadly don't have the photo (hopefully getting it at annual review) but it looked clear, with a few grey areas on the top right of my lung. This means the airways in that specific area may have some inflammation. I have always had trouble at the top of my lungs, which is why its important to work my lungs hard and become out of breath often to use the full capacity.
I then saw my physio, we went over my current physio regime and what medication I am on. I then did the bleep test, which measures my all round fitness and stamina. I like to mix up my physio routine regularly because I get bored easily of the same equipment and exercises. When we discuss the results in January we will also talk about the various sport I part take in and how that works well with my physio, and overall health.
I will be writing a continuing blog post about the review later on in January with results. I am also meeting the Kings Team from London's CF unit to help with the transition into adult care.
Overall I think it went well, fingers crossed for positive review and a good start to the New Year.
Thanks for reading,
Nx
Twitter - twitter.com/11nicolee
Instagram - instagram.com/nicskath_
Cystic Fibrosis Trust Website
