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Hello everyone, COPD Newbie...

Posted , 4 users are following.

sharonamy1965
sharonamy1965

After having so called non allergic rhinitis for years, this year I developed nodules on both lungs and coughed up blood for months. Have finally been told I have COPD which I am convinced is the result of "allergies" causing severe rhinitis, loss of voice, severe never ending cough every year untill finally the coughing up of blood which prompted CT scans.

I have been started on a months course of 40mg predisnone and antibiotics. I'm just over one week in and will be tapering then have to go back for further CT scan and see where we are. I have no idea what stage I am or what my lung function is. 

Most grateful to find new COPD friends here for support and company smile

0 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • jude65855
    jude65855 sharonamy1965

    Posted

    I hope it was at least a relief to get a definite diagnosis?

    COPD is manageable and can be very slow in progression:  my lung function is the same as when I was diagnosed 3 years ago, thanks to medication and the rehab group where I learnt to manage it, exercise correctly and utilise the right breathing techniques.

    You'll know what stage you're in when you've had a spirometry lung function test:  it would't be appropriate to have one now because the predisnone could obscure the results and also of course the  lung infection you presently have.

    Were or are you a smoker?  If so, the most important thing is to quit by whatever means work for you.

    Take care of yourself

    • sharonamy1965
      sharonamy1965 jude65855

      Posted

      Thank you Jude smile I was a light smoker for 15 years but haven't smoked for the last 15 years. Yes, very relieved to have a diagnosed as I was dreading cancer. I think I did the spiro thing after my biopsy and all I can say was there were two lines, one about mid way and one slightly higher. I had no idea what it was all about at the time. Still don't really. Been reading up and bought some houseplants to try and oxygenate the air smile
    • jude65855
      jude65855 sharonamy1965

      Posted

      I'm not sure if that's a spirometry test you're describing:  the lung function test is done by exhaling as long as possible into a mouthpiece, usually a few times to get an accurate average, and usuallly at least once with ventolin to check for asthma.

      Can you ask whoever did the test you're describing if it was spirometry and what the result was?   It's good to know your lung function percentage and have it tested again every now & then to monitor progression of the condition.

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