Floxy

Accident & Emergency

This weekend I got a severe asthma attack and my sister rushed me to hospital's A&E. I was put on a respirator, and four hours later when I was allowed to go home, the nursing staff kindly loaned me a portable respirator, so I have it at hand any time I need until I get to buy one.

Three years ago, however, I was admitted to Windsor hospital for the same. But it was far more severe, so I became a patient for over a week. While there, I got a DVT in one of my legs, and since, put on permanent anticoagulants as a safeguard. The same night of the asthma attack, I had a scare when my right leg started hurting, and suspected its swelling might have been another DVT. Thankfully, no. I had a blood test to see if my blood had a carrier that would cause a clot, but it turned out negative. Later this week I have a second scan just to make sure.

Thank goodness for A&E. Our doctors and nurses work 10, even 12 hour shifts in this department, and my being seen so quickly was only because suspected DVTs are always put up as major treatment. I was very impressed at the professionalism of our NHS staff. Even working under pressure they were courteous and caring. Our country's NHS may still be battered about by the country's politicians, but its loyal and hard working staff are absolutely great.

Sarah