Lung function
Posted , 10 users are following.
I was diagnosed with COPD some while ago. It took 9 months to see a consutant who looked at my PET scan.
He said its quite mild and providing I look after myself it could stay that way.
He said I still have 90% lung function - I assume that means mild?
He also showed me the holes at the top of my lungs.
I started to wonder what it would mean to 'look after myself'
1 like, 9 replies
hypercat jennissw
Posted
Looking after yourself means not smoking, exercising, and having a healthy diet.
Take any meds you have been prescribed is important. If you get a chest infection or an exacerbation (worsening of your symptoms) it is important to be on the ball in seeing your doctor as these can damage your lungs. If you are not sure it is much better to be safe than sorry.
Whilst COPD is a progressive chronic condition it doesn't usually progress quickly and with a lung function as good as yours old age will get you before that does. Ok? Live your life and enjoy it. Bev x
josephine_30311 hypercat
Posted
I know it was meant for Jennissw .. but it made me feel so much better too.
God love you Bev ..
And thanks.
jennissw hypercat
Posted
I stopped smoking 6 years ago, thankfully. I walk 45 minutes every day, and eat fairly healthy now too. So I feel a lot better having read I am already doing the right things.
If I get a chest infection I am guessing I would need to get meds right away.
He said I dont need medication at ths stage which felt positive. I do get a little wheezy and cant do hills without getting short of breath and I guess I am aware my lungs are (albeit mildly) compromised.
Again thanks for your lovely, reassuring reply
hypercat josephine_30311
Posted
Thanks josephine. Glad it made you feel better love. Bev x
hypercat jennissw
Posted
Ada555 jennissw
Posted
jude65855 jennissw
Posted
You should've been referred to rehab: that's the VERY best way to learn how to look after yourself and the sooner you start the better. I started going when I was diagnosed with 70% lung function about 3 years ago and that hasn't deteriorated.
Equally important is to stop smoking if you're a smoker and to stay away from other people's smoke and of course, all other air borne pollution as much as possible.
You're really lucky to have been disagnosed so early: when I went to rehab I was shocked to see people so far advanced they couldn't walk without oxygen tanks, and who were only starting rehab at that stage.
The consultant wasn't quite correct to say that your lung function will stay at that level if you "look after yourself" but you can certainly keep ait at that level for many years before it starts to deteriorate.
Personally I think it's lazy and irresponsible for anyone to suggest you "look after yourself" without telling you how, but it's also up to us to ask questions - hard I know with some of those intimidating consultants - and take as much responsibility as possible for the management of the condition
I do hope you can find a pulmonary rehab group near you and that you can keep your lung function down for as long as possible
Nanny1086 jennissw
Posted
my advise would be ,,,,
if you smoke ,,,,,STOP NOW ,
eat well ,,,,have your flu vaccination every year ,and exersise I do an hour 2 days a week ,,,at the gym ,,,I was told walking was the best ,,,, further rather than faster ,,,,,good luck ,,,and keep your 90%
shashi71767 jennissw
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