COPD test

[Sharron-owen]

I am 50 years old, never smoked. I recently had a chest X-ray that shows I have COPD but need to have breathing test on Tuesday. I cough mucus all the time and I am very breathless, even when eating. What should I expect?

[luckydon]

Hi sharrow did you have a normal chest xrays or ct scan I had 2 xrayss in the last 2 years and mine where clear but doctor gave me pumps for copd having real problems wiv them at the mo

[Sharron-owen in reply to luckydon]

Hi I had a normal chest X-ray. I had to go bk to GP to request an inhaler. I was given ventolin to use til I have the Spirometry test Tuesday.

[luckydon in reply to Sharron-owen]

Hi sorry I didn't get to you sooner been busy I had 2 chest xrays which were clear but then I was put on inhalers and not told much about them

[Sharron-owen in reply to luckydon]

Do I you know anything about the saltire pipe? Hope tomorrow will give me some answers X

[PastMeBest]

Hi Sharron-owen Welcome to our forum. There are lots of members on here that can help with information and support and I'm sure you will make some new friends into the bargain.

I'm so sorry to hear that you have COPD but non-smokers aren't immune from getting it and you are one of the unlucky people who has. Just bear in mind that although it is a progressive disease a lot can be done to slow it down with diet, exercise and the right medication.

Once you have done your Breathing Test on Tuesday your Doctor will know more about the condition of your lungs and the best treatment for you. You say that you have had an X-ray and I assume that your Doctor sent you for that. Now that you have been diagnosed with COPD you should also be under a Pulmonary Consultant. Ask your Doctor about one if you haven't one as you will get more specialized treatment for your condition.

Feel free to ask your questions anytime.

Regards. John

[Sharron-owen in reply to PastMeBest]

Thanks John for the advice. It helps to know what I should be asking for.

[Hidden]

Hi I have never seen a consultant for my copd. I have asked but was told it wasn't needed unless the surgery could no longer handle my care. x

[Sharron-owen in reply to Hidden]

I just hope that the inhalers help. The mucus is driving me mad.

Well I am a bit mad anyway. Or so my mates would say 😍X

[Hidden in reply to Sharron-owen]

Well you will fit in well here then Sharron You can ask the doctor for something to help clear the mucus. x

[Sharron-owen in reply to Hidden]

I think I may have to. I am glad I found this site. It's been good to talk to someone. Thanks X

[Hidden in reply to Sharron-owen]

You are welcome. Virtually everything I have learnt about copd and lungs in general has been on here. x

[Sharron-owen in reply to Hidden]

I have learnt a lot already. The most important thing is I am not alone. Still feel a bit angry. I have never smoked, I eat well and only drink socially. Just unlucky I guess X X

[Hidden in reply to Sharron-owen]

We are all unlucky whether we were smokers or not!

[Sharron-owen in reply to Hidden]

You my dear are very right. But it could be much worse. At least we have each other for help and support X

[soulsaver]

How long have you had the mucous/breathlessness problem?

[Sharron-owen in reply to soulsaver]

The mucus constantly for about six months. Every time I get a cold it takes ages to clear and always ends up on my chest. I have always been like that.

The more severe breathlessness for several months but last 2 months have been really bad. Even going up one flight of stairs or eating a meal leaves me breathless.

[Patriciapotts in reply to Sharron-owen]

Sharon, once you have had your tests, the drs will be able to say whether or not it is actually COPD or could be IPF which can be confused with COPD & the treatment is a little different. Ask for clarification of diagnosis. Lots of drugs on market to help with IPF

[Sharron-owen in reply to Patriciapotts]

Well I hope tomorrow will get me some answers. Thanks for letting me know. X

[B0xermad]

hi same here never smoked I use an Acapella device to help clear mucus and keep chest from getting infected

[B0xermad in reply to B0xermad]

I have copd and bronchietasis which is the reason for all the mucus ,a ct scan should show up what you have and push your consultant or physio in pulmonary department for devices and classes on clearance techniques.It has been a godsend for me otherwise I would still be in a complete mess.good luck

[Sharron-owen in reply to B0xermad]

Hi boxer mad. We do have a lot in common. We have a boxer too. Love her to bits. Thanks for the info. I had readings taken to and have to speak with GP at end of the week. Nurse did say the readings were good!!! Don't understand why I feel so breathless then!!! X