FEV test was 47% - quite worried.

[jakmum]

I was a 30 a day smoker for 38 years but quit on 28 April 2009. I was diagnosed with COPD after a bout of pneumonia in January 2004, after which I carried on smoking like a complete fool. My lungs are now shot to bits obviously. I have just had my annual COPD review with the practice nurse and my FEV1 test came out at 47%. It has worsened since last year when it was 50%. BUT the strange thing is that, since January 2013, I have lost nearly 3 stone and regularly attend the gym (3-4 times a week - cardio, resistance, classes). I truly thought this would have helped my lungs - but obviously not - help someone - bit worried - should I see the doctor?

[Hidden]

47% aint that bad! My husband is now at 27% - your fitness levels and loosing weight will definitely have helped. Was it a good day for you when you had the COPD review, have you had a cold, are you feeling well?

More importantly to all those questions how do you feel? Do you feel worse? Are you more breathless? The reason I ask is because my husband was mortified when his lung function had worsened so much BUT he still has a great quality of life. My advise would be - don't worry - do all you can to slow this disease down - you've done the important bit stopping smoking. The figures matter when you are not well - it helps the doctors work out the best medications for you etc. but generally day to day its about how you are coping. If you're doing OK - great, carry on!

Have you been on a pulmonary rehab course - my husband has just finished his second course and I think it probably saved his life. Like you he was in great shock at his lung function but the course of about 6/8 weeks twice a week - one hour exercise and one hour information. The information is really important - it taught him about his medications, what he should expect and how to look after himself. Having re-read your post though your are doing pretty well at the gym - my husband could not do that!! (actually not sure I could!). Actually I am convinced that if my husband had taken his fitness more seriously he would be much fitter now.

Have you had the information pack on COPD from BLF - it might be worth making a call and getting an information pack which will give you information. There is nothing worse than the fear of the disease - you can live for a long long time with COPD and not necessarily with a poor quality of life. My husband is still working full time, we have a great life - just a lot slower than most others!!

Try to enjoy your life, don't worry, with much love TADxxx

[Hidden]

Answer to your question is yes, I think you should see a doctor.

[nixy]

jakmum, Congrats for doing so well going to the gym. Have you lost weight through exercise ?. if not then yes a chat to the doctor would be wise, good luck.

[artichic]

See the doc.