I have just (last Thursday) been diagnosed with moderate COPD and I think I'm still in a bit of shock even though it was the diagnosis I'd expected which, if I'm honest, was why I kept putting off the spirometry test. Haven't even had the lung x-ray yet. Keep putting it off; am now thinking it might be cancer... What's that they say, glass half full!
However, leaving my worries about that to one side, discussed with my partner this evening the positives about joining a forum and, hey, I think maybe I need some pointers on this. I've looked at some of the postings on this site and, actually, they all look a bit depressing (sorry...). Please, is there any good news out there?
Would welcome an answer though on this. I've been prescribed an inhaler which I haven't dispensed yet. Take every morning. Effective for 24 hours... I am just worried that I might become dependent (more specifically, my lungs) and that when I give up smoking (yes, I'm one of the Great Unwashed) later this month I might not need it but that if I start using it, I'll need it. I am having breathing difficulties particularly early morning so am tempted to dispense the prescription but, as I say, concerned about dependency which might be avoidable. Any advice. Please, please. I would really appreciate it.
Blimey, who'd have thought?!
Be grateful for responses (but, please, not horribly depressing ones!).
Hiya Smartt and welcome to the site. There are some fantastic people here who will do their best to help. As one of them (lol) i will start off.
I have had asthma for many years and was diagnosed with mild COPD about 4 years ago. The good news is it is not an automatic death sentence and it will not necessarily get worse or not a lot. I am still smoking so feel a hypocrite saying this but stopping will really help to stop further damage. I know this and I keep trying to stop. You need to as well. Stopping won't unfortunately reverse any damage but it will stop it getting worse.
The main thing is to look after yourself. Eating well and excercising regularly is very important. You don't say your age but all things being equal if you do look after yourself you will live to a ripe old age. But it is most important to use your inhalers - they are not addictive as far as I know and they will help you to breathe. There are lots of treatments out there to help us and most of all there is hope. There are a number of folk here who are very severe or have other serious lung diseases and they are still coping and still alive.
So keep your pecker up love and try and stay optimistic.
Hope this helps.
Bev xx
• in reply to
Wow. I'm amazed by the many encouraging and positive responses I've had to my posting. Thank you, everyone of you. It's been truly helpful reading them and, certainly, has made me feel less in the dark and out on a limb than I have been feeling since last week. I plan to get this inhaler later today, after work, and shall start using it tomorrow morning. I am wondering now (in light of your responses) whether my fears about dependency on the inhaler were not just about that but also, perhaps, a subconscious rejection of having COPD - you know, that once you start using a medication, you're owning the illness. No, I'm not a Psychologist, it's just a few of you seemed to almost seemed to imply that.
Good to read that many of you were similarly taken aback to hear you had this thing but, most important, that you all continue to lead active lives (albeit with some limitations). I think because the only sufferers I've known of COPD haven't had a good time (father, aunt, mother) I couldn't help but base my response on that. So, thank you all for helping me see that it isn't as black and white as I'd thought.
Yes, by the way, I am absolutely aware of the importance of packing up smoking (I also realise the illogical nature of worrying about becoming addicted to meds. and ignoring the obvious addiction to nicotine)... I have decided on a date - no, not next year or something ridiculous - it's very soon; a little later this month in fact. So, yes, I am obviously taking action on that.
Sorry for thinking you guys were all going to be miserable. I couldn't have been more wrong. I feel guilty now! You're a great bunch.
Hi Hypercat - sorry you are still smoking but pleased I am not the only one still hooked on the weed - maybe one day we will both be able to kick it - hope so for both our sakes xx
Smartt pleased you have had loads of good advice and good luck. xx
Hi Smartt and welcome to the forum.
Learning we have COPD does sort of knock us for 6. I was OK with it at first, then a few weeks in I went into a deep decline and became convinced I was going to die relatively soon. I phoned the BLF Helpline at the time and they were marvellous ... they put everything into perspective for me and looking back I can't believe I got myself into such a state. You can give them a call for all sorts of advice too.
It's been nearly 5 years now since I was diagnosed and in that time I can honestly say I haven't deteriorated much at all. I'm one of the fortunate ones who doesn't smoke, so didn't need to worry about either giving up, or trying to stop, but would recommend you do so if you can.
I've no idea if any of the medication is addictive, though I wouldn't think so. Even if it was then surely it would be worth taking just to help you breathe easier. After all we don't worry about wearing glasses if we can't see properly .. It's just something that makes our life a little easier.
I'm sorry you have found the site depressing, there are a lot of very positive blogs in amongst all the other stuff. It'll just take time to sift through them all.
You'll probably find you'll need to make some changes as to how you do things - you'll possibly be slower than before and need to take a rest between doing things, but with today's hectic pace of life slowing down's not a bad thing.
Please keep coming around. You probably won't agree with everything and some of the advice might not work for you, but you're sure to find someone to pick you up when you're down; who's been there before you and can help you through; who understands when you get angry or frustrated with yourself; and you can even give you tips on stopping the dreaded weed.
Looking forward to hearing more from you in the future.
Carrie
• in reply to
Wow. I'm amazed by the many encouraging and positive responses I've had to my posting. Thank you, everyone of you. It's been truly helpful reading them and, certainly, has made me feel less in the dark and out on a limb than I have been feeling since last week. I plan to get this inhaler later today, after work, and shall start using it tomorrow morning. I am wondering now (in light of your responses) whether my fears about dependency on the inhaler were not just about that but also, perhaps, a subconscious rejection of having COPD - you know, that once you start using a medication, you're owning the illness. No, I'm not a Psychologist, it's just a few of you seemed to almost seemed to imply that.
Good to read that many of you were similarly taken aback to hear you had this thing but, most important, that you all continue to lead active lives (albeit with some limitations). I think because the only sufferers I've known of COPD haven't had a good time (father, aunt, mother) I couldn't help but base my response on that. So, thank you all for helping me see that it isn't as black and white as I'd thought.
Yes, by the way, I am absolutely aware of the importance of packing up smoking (I also realise the illogical nature of worrying about becoming addicted to meds. and ignoring the obvious addiction to nicotine)... I have decided on a date - no, not next year or something ridiculous - it's very soon; a little later this month in fact. So, yes, I am obviously taking action on that.
Sorry for thinking you guys were all going to be miserable. I couldn't have been more wrong. I feel guilty now! You're a great bunch.
Hi smart we all get depressed one time are another it's part and parcel of finding out you have got copd Ian a newbie I found out over 2 wks ago after I had an xray Ian having my lung test tomorrow to see what level I am the people on this site have been 100 per cent brilliant they have give me advice when needed also I have up,smoking 11 days ago and wouldn't of been able manage it without the support of these lovely people :) xxx
Wow. I'm amazed by the many encouraging and positive responses I've had to my posting. Thank you, everyone of you. It's been truly helpful reading them and, certainly, has made me feel less in the dark and out on a limb than I have been feeling since last week. I plan to get this inhaler later today, after work, and shall start using it tomorrow morning. I am wondering now (in light of your responses) whether my fears about dependency on the inhaler were not just about that but also, perhaps, a subconscious rejection of having COPD - you know, that once you start using a medication, you're owning the illness. No, I'm not a Psychologist, it's just a few of you seemed to almost seemed to imply that.
Good to read that many of you were similarly taken aback to hear you had this thing but, most important, that you all continue to lead active lives (albeit with some limitations). I think because the only sufferers I've known of COPD haven't had a good time (father, aunt, mother) I couldn't help but base my response on that. So, thank you all for helping me see that it isn't as black and white as I'd thought.
Yes, by the way, I am absolutely aware of the importance of packing up smoking (I also realise the illogical nature of worrying about becoming addicted to meds. and ignoring the obvious addiction to nicotine)... I have decided on a date - no, not next year or something ridiculous - it's very soon; a little later this month in fact. So, yes, I am obviously taking action on that.
Sorry for thinking you guys were all going to be miserable. I couldn't have been more wrong. I feel guilty now! You're a great bunch.
I was diagnosed a year ago just after I quit smoking. I am moderate but it doesn't stop me doing anything I did before, I just do things a bit more slowly at times.
I am 58, I work, I go to the gym, I have an allotment and lead a full life. It is not a death sentence at all. The single biggest thing to stop getting worse is to quit smoking. I know it's not easy, but get as much support as you can to help you, from your doctor and on here. I quit using Champix, but everyone as their preferred way.
After that, exercise is the key. It's not bad to get breathless in a controlled way. Ask your doctor about Pulmonary Rehabilitation courses. Loads of people on here have done them with huge benefits. I haven't myself, but as I was pretty fit anyway, my GP said to carry on with the gym.
Then eat healthily, maintain a healthy weight and try to avoid infections. There is no reason, as others have said, that you can live well with the condition for a long time. There are many examples on this site.
Take your meds. They work, they improve management of your condition and they are not addictive (unlike cigarettes). I am on a daily dose of Spiriva and it makes a big difference to me.
Finally, ring the BLF helpline for an information pack, it's full of really helpful stuff that will help you learn about the illness we share. Their number is 03000 030 555.
Wow. I'm amazed by the many encouraging and positive responses I've had to my posting. Thank you, everyone of you. It's been truly helpful reading them and, certainly, has made me feel less in the dark and out on a limb than I have been feeling since last week. I plan to get this inhaler later today, after work, and shall start using it tomorrow morning. I am wondering now (in light of your responses) whether my fears about dependency on the inhaler were not just about that but also, perhaps, a subconscious rejection of having COPD - you know, that once you start using a medication, you're owning the illness. No, I'm not a Psychologist, it's just a few of you seemed to almost seemed to imply that.
Good to read that many of you were similarly taken aback to hear you had this thing but, most important, that you all continue to lead active lives (albeit with some limitations). I think because the only sufferers I've known of COPD haven't had a good time (father, aunt, mother) I couldn't help but base my response on that. So, thank you all for helping me see that it isn't as black and white as I'd thought.
Yes, by the way, I am absolutely aware of the importance of packing up smoking (I also realise the illogical nature of worrying about becoming addicted to meds. and ignoring the obvious addiction to nicotine)... I have decided on a date - no, not next year or something ridiculous - it's very soon; a little later this month in fact. So, yes, I am obviously taking action on that.
Sorry for thinking you guys were all going to be miserable. I couldn't have been more wrong. I feel guilty now! You're a great bunch.
Thanks.
Smartt.
Hello - I care for my husband who has moderate/severe COPD and was diagnosed about 8 years ago. He still works full time, still lives a very good life but it a lot slower than we used to be! There is much to be positive about! Honestly! The fact is a lot of people use this forum when they need help, when their breathing is worse, when I am worried about my husband - just as you are doing now. When everything is going well - people tend to get on with their lives!
Our Doctor told us that if my husband gave up smoking and kept himself fit there was no reason the disease should progress significantly. It is important that you do use the medications correctly so that there is no further damage to your lungs. Please ring the BLF helpline for an information pack - it has masses of useful advise.
One of the biggest problems for COPD sufferers is an exacerbation (when the symptoms get much worse) - sometimes there is a reason eg. chest infection and sometimes it is just one o those things. Colds can turn into nasty chest infections - so avoid people with colds! Much more of a problem in winter.
Keep fit - exercise is key! AND find as much information as you can - at least you know what you have to deal with and these blogs will help you know what you should be asking the Doctor etc.
Good Luck - There are lots of positive stories and lots of people living happy lives with COPD!
TAD xxx
• in reply to
Wow. I'm amazed by the many encouraging and positive responses I've had to my posting. Thank you, everyone of you. It's been truly helpful reading them and, certainly, has made me feel less in the dark and out on a limb than I have been feeling since last week. I plan to get this inhaler later today, after work, and shall start using it tomorrow morning. I am wondering now (in light of your responses) whether my fears about dependency on the inhaler were not just about that but also, perhaps, a subconscious rejection of having COPD - you know, that once you start using a medication, you're owning the illness. No, I'm not a Psychologist, it's just a few of you seemed to almost seemed to imply that.
Good to read that many of you were similarly taken aback to hear you had this thing but, most important, that you all continue to lead active lives (albeit with some limitations). I think because the only sufferers I've known of COPD haven't had a good time (father, aunt, mother) I couldn't help but base my response on that. So, thank you all for helping me see that it isn't as black and white as I'd thought.
Yes, by the way, I am absolutely aware of the importance of packing up smoking (I also realise the illogical nature of worrying about becoming addicted to meds. and ignoring the obvious addiction to nicotine)... I have decided on a date - no, not next year or something ridiculous - it's very soon; a little later this month in fact. So, yes, I am obviously taking action on that.
Sorry for thinking you guys were all going to be miserable. I couldn't have been more wrong. I feel guilty now! You're a great bunch.
Thanks.
Smartt.
Welcome, Smartt, It was a good move to join us lot. Welcome. You have had lots of really advice> I cant add to this but think you give up smoking. Believe me it can be done. I haven't smoked for many years. Think it is important to set the date today. And prepare yourself mentally and physically for the big day. Make it within the next week. Smoking will go against the action of any medications you take. Yiu worry about being dependant on the inhaler but aren't you already dependant on the cigs.
Pardon me for being blunt but kindly meant, Smartt. Please PM me if you want a chat about smoking.
• in reply to
Wow. I'm amazed by the many encouraging and positive responses I've had to my posting. Thank you, everyone of you. It's been truly helpful reading them and, certainly, has made me feel less in the dark and out on a limb than I have been feeling since last week. I plan to get this inhaler later today, after work, and shall start using it tomorrow morning. I am wondering now (in light of your responses) whether my fears about dependency on the inhaler were not just about that but also, perhaps, a subconscious rejection of having COPD - you know, that once you start using a medication, you're owning the illness. No, I'm not a Psychologist, it's just a few of you seemed to almost seemed to imply that.
Good to read that many of you were similarly taken aback to hear you had this thing but, most important, that you all continue to lead active lives (albeit with some limitations). I think because the only sufferers I've known of COPD haven't had a good time (father, aunt, mother) I couldn't help but base my response on that. So, thank you all for helping me see that it isn't as black and white as I'd thought.
Yes, by the way, I am absolutely aware of the importance of packing up smoking (I also realise the illogical nature of worrying about becoming addicted to meds. and ignoring the obvious addiction to nicotine)... I have decided on a date - no, not next year or something ridiculous - it's very soon; a little later this month in fact. So, yes, I am obviously taking action on that.
Sorry for thinking you guys were all going to be miserable. I couldn't have been more wrong. I feel guilty now! You're a great bunch.
Thanks.
Smartt.
Hi,
Don't let a diagnosis get you down, or use it as an excuse! Diagnosis simply means that they know what is wrong with you and how to treat.
You do need to respect it and get yourself as healthy as you can. You need to recognise your control and know what to do when you start to lose it! Have a chat with your GP about a plan!
Learn what you can and take responsibility for your own health and manage it.
Accept it and enjoy your life.
Bw kevin
• in reply to
Wow. I'm amazed by the many encouraging and positive responses I've had to my posting. Thank you, everyone of you. It's been truly helpful reading them and, certainly, has made me feel less in the dark and out on a limb than I have been feeling since last week. I plan to get this inhaler later today, after work, and shall start using it tomorrow morning. I am wondering now (in light of your responses) whether my fears about dependency on the inhaler were not just about that but also, perhaps, a subconscious rejection of having COPD - you know, that once you start using a medication, you're owning the illness. No, I'm not a Psychologist, it's just a few of you seemed to almost seemed to imply that.
Good to read that many of you were similarly taken aback to hear you had this thing but, most important, that you all continue to lead active lives (albeit with some limitations). I think because the only sufferers I've known of COPD haven't had a good time (father, aunt, mother) I couldn't help but base my response on that. So, thank you all for helping me see that it isn't as black and white as I'd thought.
Yes, by the way, I am absolutely aware of the importance of packing up smoking (I also realise the illogical nature of worrying about becoming addicted to meds. and ignoring the obvious addiction to nicotine)... I have decided on a date - no, not next year or something ridiculous - it's very soon; a little later this month in fact. So, yes, I am obviously taking action on that.
Sorry for thinking you guys were all going to be miserable. I couldn't have been more wrong. I feel guilty now! You're a great bunch.
Thanks.
Smartt.
Hi there
Welcome
I really wouldn't worry about becoming dependant on your inhaler. In my experience ((with asthma) they work extremely well once you've been taking them a couple of weeks and are on the right dose of the right inhalers.
I've been taking daily meds almost all my life and would be dead pretty quickly if I stopped, but that doesn't bother me much at all. When I was diagnosed hypothyroid, the hospital doc seemed worried that I wouldn't be willing to take my thyroid replacement but I assured him that'd be absolutely fine.
So all in all, taking meds each day doesn't have to be a problem, even if you rely on them (like me and loads of people).
koala
• in reply to
Wow. I'm amazed by the many encouraging and positive responses I've had to my posting. Thank you, everyone of you. It's been truly helpful reading them and, certainly, has made me feel less in the dark and out on a limb than I have been feeling since last week. I plan to get this inhaler later today, after work, and shall start using it tomorrow morning. I am wondering now (in light of your responses) whether my fears about dependency on the inhaler were not just about that but also, perhaps, a subconscious rejection of having COPD - you know, that once you start using a medication, you're owning the illness. No, I'm not a Psychologist, it's just a few of you seemed to almost seemed to imply that.
Good to read that many of you were similarly taken aback to hear you had this thing but, most important, that you all continue to lead active lives (albeit with some limitations). I think because the only sufferers I've known of COPD haven't had a good time (father, aunt, mother) I couldn't help but base my response on that. So, thank you all for helping me see that it isn't as black and white as I'd thought.
Yes, by the way, I am absolutely aware of the importance of packing up smoking (I also realise the illogical nature of worrying about becoming addicted to meds. and ignoring the obvious addiction to nicotine)... I have decided on a date - no, not next year or something ridiculous - it's very soon; a little later this month in fact. So, yes, I am obviously taking action on that.
Sorry for thinking you guys were all going to be miserable. I couldn't have been more wrong. I feel guilty now! You're a great bunch.
If you click on my name and read my profile you will see we are not a miserable lot, in fact not many of us are. Come and join us and you will see some of the blogs are hilarious. Keep smiling
Wow. I'm amazed by the many encouraging and positive responses I've had to my posting. Thank you, everyone of you. It's been truly helpful reading them and, certainly, has made me feel less in the dark and out on a limb than I have been feeling since last week. I plan to get this inhaler later today, after work, and shall start using it tomorrow morning. I am wondering now (in light of your responses) whether my fears about dependency on the inhaler were not just about that but also, perhaps, a subconscious rejection of having COPD - you know, that once you start using a medication, you're owning the illness. No, I'm not a Psychologist, it's just a few of you seemed to almost seemed to imply that.
Good to read that many of you were similarly taken aback to hear you had this thing but, most important, that you all continue to lead active lives (albeit with some limitations). I think because the only sufferers I've known of COPD haven't had a good time (father, aunt, mother) I couldn't help but base my response on that. So, thank you all for helping me see that it isn't as black and white as I'd thought.
Yes, by the way, I am absolutely aware of the importance of packing up smoking (I also realise the illogical nature of worrying about becoming addicted to meds. and ignoring the obvious addiction to nicotine)... I have decided on a date - no, not next year or something ridiculous - it's very soon; a little later this month in fact. So, yes, I am obviously taking action on that.
Sorry for thinking you guys were all going to be miserable. I couldn't have been more wrong. I feel guilty now! You're a great bunch.
Hi there I'm Gail and I am fairly new to this site and I found it scary at first how ill some of the people on here are but everyone supports each other.Just because you have copd it doesn't mean that your life will change dramatically mine hasn't.I think the biggest change in mine has been becoming smoke free if .you really want to give up smoking then you will get a lot of help to do it.Why are you waiting you must know that it is the best thing you can do.Many of us on here have done it so it can't be that bad.
Wow. I'm amazed by the many encouraging and positive responses I've had to my posting. Thank you, everyone of you. It's been truly helpful reading them and, certainly, has made me feel less in the dark and out on a limb than I have been feeling since last week. I plan to get this inhaler later today, after work, and shall start using it tomorrow morning. I am wondering now (in light of your responses) whether my fears about dependency on the inhaler were not just about that but also, perhaps, a subconscious rejection of having COPD - you know, that once you start using a medication, you're owning the illness. No, I'm not a Psychologist, it's just a few of you seemed to almost seemed to imply that.
Good to read that many of you were similarly taken aback to hear you had this thing but, most important, that you all continue to lead active lives (albeit with some limitations). I think because the only sufferers I've known of COPD haven't had a good time (father, aunt, mother) I couldn't help but base my response on that. So, thank you all for helping me see that it isn't as black and white as I'd thought.
Yes, by the way, I am absolutely aware of the importance of packing up smoking (I also realise the illogical nature of worrying about becoming addicted to meds. and ignoring the obvious addiction to nicotine)... I have decided on a date - no, not next year or something ridiculous - it's very soon; a little later this month in fact. So, yes, I am obviously taking action on that.
Sorry for thinking you guys were all going to be miserable. I couldn't have been more wrong. I feel guilty now! You're a great bunch.
Thanks.
Smartt.
Wow. I'm amazed by the many encouraging and positive responses I've had to my posting. Thank you, everyone of you. It's been truly helpful reading them and, certainly, has made me feel less in the dark and out on a limb than I have been feeling since last week. I plan to get this inhaler later today, after work, and shall start using it tomorrow morning. I am wondering now (in light of your responses) whether my fears about dependency on the inhaler were not just about that but also, perhaps, a subconscious rejection of having COPD - you know, that once you start using a medication, you're owning the illness. No, I'm not a Psychologist, it's just a few of you seemed to almost seemed to imply that.
Good to read that many of you were similarly taken aback to hear you had this thing but, most important, that you all continue to lead active lives (albeit with some limitations). I think because the only sufferers I've known of COPD haven't had a good time (father, aunt, mother) I couldn't help but base my response on that. So, thank you all for helping me see that it isn't as black and white as I'd thought.
Yes, by the way, I am absolutely aware of the importance of packing up smoking (I also realise the illogical nature of worrying about becoming addicted to meds. and ignoring the obvious addiction to nicotine)... I have decided on a date - no, not next year or something ridiculous - it's very soon; a little later this month in fact. So, yes, I am obviously taking action on that.
Sorry for thinking you guys were all going to be miserable. I couldn't have been more wrong. I feel guilty now! You're a great bunch.
Thanks.
Smartt.
Hey smartt, use the inhaler, don,t frighten yourself about some of the more depressing posts, we will all support you. take care xx
All I shall say is don,t make the mistake I made!When diagnosed with Copd.I did,nt really have many symptoms,I carried on smoking.As it got worse I stopped the ciggies but my weakness was actual weed.When I had to call 999because I could,nt breathe and it was enough of a fright I stopped that day.Because I had continued to smoke I now have severe emphysema and life is quite limited.So,stop smoking,get plenty exercise and eat decent food and you will live to be a hundred and be a grumpy old sod like me(I,m 58).Good luck.D.
Hi, and welcome! First of all and foremost, If you think it's cancer, go and do everything you can to find out! I was diagnosed with pneumonia last December, and the doctors I saw took x-rays back then and in March, when I was still having symptoms that didn't fit with pneumonia or asthma anymore. I found out 2 weeks ago I have stage 2 lung cancer after smoking for 30 years. In the last weeks I have had my head spinning with doctors appt.'s and outpatient surgeries, but they feel that I still have a chance to save my lung and remove the tumor because it was caught early in the game. When I was told it was cancer, I threw out my cigarettes, and so did my husband, and I haven't smoked since, it makes me sick that I was literally killing myself. But now, I am told I do have a fighting chance and will start chemo / radiation as early as the end of next week.
This website is fantastic, and yes it may seem depressing at first glance, but the people on here are friendly, and will tell you what they have been through without making things up, or giving misleading info. It's just what has happened to them... by which we all learn. This really isn't a blog so much as it's a site for asking questions to normal people what to expect with procedures and tests, about drugs, and different feelings. They'll help you quit smoking and let you cry on their shoulders, or they'll tell you a joke. Unfortunately life isn't all good news, but you have to have a little bad to truly appreciate the good
Welcome to the site. You know when I joined this site I felt better already because knowing you're not isolated with this and there are thousands on here with it just makes me feel not alone and I can share on here when I like(just posted this morning about some trials I'm doing on new meds)
When I was diagnosed I was gob smacked it was just four months after I stopped smoking and found it hard to believe. Yes I too was given inhalers and sometimes I did know if I had enough breath to suck in the stuff
I'm now on blue inhaler take whenever - spiriva once a day and a white one take twice a day
If I don't take them I don't feel too bad but if I take them I think my breathing is better - but if I
Miss them I'm just ok so your suggestion of being dependant I think it's a case of they do make your breathing easier
Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.
Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.