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COPD?

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cathy64261
cathy64261

I am 49 years old,  was asthmatic as a child ( but thought I had 'grown out of it')  and throughout my life have had two periods of smoking - probably around 10 per day for approx 2 years each time.  I do not smoke now.  I have recently had a long irritable cough which lasted for months.. no mucus. I was given a spirometer test and the nurse said that it showed early COPD.  However, even though the nurse said that the machine was infallible,  due to my lifestyle factors & age (I presume)

the nurse referred the results to my GP who overturned the results and said that I have asthma not COPD.   I have a steroid and ventolin inhaler which I only use when needed (before exercise).  I am extremely worried that I do have COPD .. I am incredibly unfit and become breathless just walking up a slight hill - which two years ago wouldn't affect me. However, after using the inhalers everyday for a few weeks, I no longer have the cough. I rarely exercise so wonder if my breathlessness is caused by being so unfit.   Should I ask for another opinion  as to whether I have COPD or asthma?  Is there anything I can do to delay the onset of COPD - IF I have it?  If I have COPD should I be doing anything to help my condition ?  I am worried that being treated as an asthmatic rather than having COPD (if I have it)  will have negative long-term effects,  any advice please?

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  • DawnDedee
    DawnDedee cathy64261

    Posted

    Hi Cathy,

    I can so understand your plight and I am so sorry that you have to live in limbo, not knowing one way or another what is wrong with your health.

    I would tell you my own extreme history with asthma and COPD, but I am tired of my own story. So I am going to focus on what I think your next step should be.

    You need a complete lung function study. You need another opinion from a pulmonary specialist, preferably at a reputable teaching University. At this type of environment, you will find residents/students under the guide of a good doctor and those residents are eager to graduate and gain strong references, so they give good care. They are also up to snuff with the latest newest everything.

    You need to see an allergy asthma specialist to uncover what you are allergic to and tackle it.

    You need to go outside your area for a second opinion, travel far if needed.

    I sure wish the best for you!

    💛 Dawn, USA TN

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