HELP WITH COPD N EMPHYSEMA

[kelseytwo]

I have late stage COPD and emphysema. I have develo[ped REALLY BIG stomach and midriff. Does anyone know why this is happening? I hear it makes your breathing that much worse.THANK U

[sassy59]

Just want to send peace and happiness to you and please get help if you feel you need it. Xxxx

[Ergendl]

Hi, Kelsey2. There can be all sorts of medical reasons for gaining a really big stomach, quite apart from eating too much! When the holiday is over, it might be an idea make an appointment and have a chat with your GP about the problem. Do you get swollen ankles?

[knitter]

I would get it checked, but I have a steroid belly and I find my chest has expanded too...mmmmm....I have hyper inflated lungs.

[scorpiolass]

Hi , happy Christmas too you. I am prone to big stomach problems & yes it does affect breathing. I also have Hypothyroid problems, so Nurse puts it down to this and steroids. I try to keep it under control by watching my diet, walking and using a fitbit. lately, I have had a chest infection, using antibiotics and oral steroids, very little exercise. I put on about 10 Ilbs & now it is Christmas. Strict regime again in New Year. X

[hallentine47]

Long term use of steroids up to 40 mg a day in short periods and generally 20 -- 30 mg a day on going has produced a huge stomach and has effected my teeth most of which have now been taken out due to bone loss and on set of Osteoporosis and cataracts. But steroids help me breath and so I accept all the side effects. I haven't gained weight with the gaining stomach which I find curious.

[Hidden]

This is because with COPD our lungs are hyperinflated and elongated. There isn't enough room in the chest cavity for our enlarged and elongated lungs so they take up any room available. They fill out our mid section and flatten the diaphragm as they demand more room. This robs us of the slender waist we use to have and we end up thick around the middle.

[Sherry44]

You're quite right LaVerita. A thickened waist and stomach - gone is the petite lady I used to be . I don't think I'm as broad as I'm long, but not far off!!!

[bayleyray-uk]

Ohh, I know the feeling, as Vashti calls them 'the devils smarties' have been my down fall. Huge big tummy and diaphragm, lousy eyesight, scabby body the list goes on but they stopped the constant coughing and visits to a&e because I coughed so much, so swings and roundabouts as they say.

Take care, happy new year.

Sue