Just joined this wonderful site today. I have been diagnosed with severe COPD. My fev1 was 82% this time last year and is now 39%. Last year I was going on 8 ml hikes over hill and dale, whereas today I can't walk from my lounge to my kitchen without my sats dropping to 88%. I have been off work for 4 wks now and am in danger of losing my job as I am a support worker in the NHS and spend 10hrs a day on my feet. I have been told that nurses are afraid for my well being and I'm not allowed back in till I've seen the occi health doc. I have had a couple of spirometry tests an echo and a ct scan. I'm not due to see consultant again till Sept, but cant keep on wondering whether I need any tests to ascertain whether I need ambulatory oxygen as I have read that sats under 90% aren't good for your heart. Any suggestions?
Thanks