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83 year old with emphysema, fibrosis & anemia

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ken07318
ken07318

I have been recently diagnosed with anemia, pulmonary fibrosis, and emphysema. My anemia wa so bad 5 moths ago, I could hardly walk, but now about normal. I was tested with pft, ct scan and x-rays, Oxy blood was 92 at the doctor's after a 5 minute walk. x-ray shows cloudeness. .QUESTION: what problems above stop me from going to altitudes over 1500 feet without light headedness and getting dizzy?

I worked in a testing lab and exposed to bad chemicals and rock dust for about 4 years 1961 throgh 1965. The elevation problem started in the early 1970's. Today I'm short of breath after exercing or short work.  

I'm a non smoker, non driker, do about 8 push ups and ride bicycle about 3 miles every other day. I take 24 mg of iron daily, no meds,

QUESTION

How long Do you think I will last? I feel normal most times? I breath ok..

1 like, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • peter46309
    peter46309 ken07318

    Posted

    hi ken

    92 is not bad at all for blood sats, although walking, like heavy breathing can give a falsely high reading , it still is damn good when all these variables are taken into account particularly being 83. Most people diagnosed with copd in their forties and fifties would settle for seeing being 83.

    I'd say to answer your question about how long have you got, well -  how long is a piece of string.  Stay healthy, keep walking, and enjoy every single day.

    Just today my neighbour told me of a neighbour of hers who was bemoaning that it was a terrible day since it was raining.

    Her reply was "No. it's a beautiful day, it's just raining"

    Just like copd sufferers, life is all around you,  take a good look around, it's still beautiful .

    • ken07318
      ken07318 peter46309

      Posted

      Peter,

      Thanks for your info. I am just "tickled pink" to be able to negotiate and enjoy our mother earth and natue without pain or severe handiaps as yet. I really appreciate every day, as well as you must.

      hanks for responding.

      Ken

  • william6088
    william6088 ken07318

    Posted

    Well Ken, l really don't see your concern. your taking your iron for the Anemia, your copd is not bad or you would 1. Be on meds  2. be on o2.       High elevations are hard on copd cause there is less air, ck. with Dr. but i think you could go there if you wore o2 while there. he can order that, medicare should pay for it. other than that l think you are doing great. the light headedness can also be from lack of blood getting to the Brain  ..                                                    
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