One step forward and two steps back

[Eco1]

Try as I might, it is difficult to remain positive at times.

I finally visit the Doc today to sort out my increasing list of symptoms. I came away with another prescription for possible reflux which has been the cause of my sleepless nights and SOB of late. I also managed to get a print out of the results of my lung function test, which has been a struggle in itself.

Anyway, I get home and begin to decipher the rows of numbers in front of me. It is then I notice in the specialist's handwriting the words "consistent with ACOS".

Now my curious mind just has to find out what these strange scribblings mean ..... and then I find it; Asthma, COPD Overlap Syndrome. More research and I discovered that this is a newly identified condition and one, not yet recognised by NICE.

I suppose my question now is, has anyone else here been diagnosed with ACOS and what is your treatment plan?

[Hidden]

Hi I think it just means that the symptoms overlap that's all. I have asthma and copd and the symptoms do overlap and it can be hard for even doctors to determine what is caused by asthma and what is caused by copd.

[Hidden]

hi Eco1, must admit this is the frist time ive head of this condition, so i googled it as i too have copd, asthma, acid refulx/gerd. i know that these doctors/professors have spent many years studing all these condtions that we have and i only spent 15 or so minutes on google but i think an right in saying that all what they are saying is only guesses. and this word overlap is someones idea of been smart .

i can just see the smart specialist checking me over and not having a clue why i was gasping for air, saying dont worry son your just going through an overlap.

guess NICE have there reasons for not recogising overlap.

[katieoxo60]

Hello Eco1, this is not an unusual comment made by consultants. I have a letter in my file that says overlapping symptoms that mean no definate diagnosis of Asthma or COPD might ever be reached. So it is treated as both illnesses existing . I take three inhalers however the cough remains and the breathing problems, fortunately I can still get out and about even if at a slow pace. Hope this info helps you Oh forgot I have twelve monthly checks of respiratory system, then three monthly prescription reveiws.

[Ergendl]

I was told I have COPD with some reactivity, so maybe the same rose by another name.

[knitter]

I have asthma / COPD.....one GP said its a ' grey area' to diagnose.

[annenic]

I have Asthma and COPD, all it means for me is the Doc not knowing (being unable to tell) if a flare up is Asthma related or COPD related. Either way the treatment is antibiotics and steroids x

[janice01 in reply to annenic]

Same here!

[MoyB]

I have asthma/COPD overlap. I'm treated with inhalers and tablets ie Relvar, Incruse and Montelukast, Cetirizine, Beconase nasal spray. I didn't know NICE don't recognise the condition but it may explain why I was asked in hospital recently whether I had asthma or COPD. The doctor then said, 'Oh, you started with asthma and now you have COPD - it may be an overlap.' I also have bronchiectasis and have regular exaccerbations so often have to take antibiotics and steroids. xx Moy

[Dmactds]

Let me say first that I realize diagnoses of health problems are very important; it's part of what's produced an abundance of healthier lives for many, many people.

However, as in any 'industry' there is, I believe, a tendency to invent solutions to problems that don't exist..., only imagined. And there is a tendency on the part of the masses to fall for these 'snake oil salesmen' and stop relying on their own judgement for their own well being, preferring instead to put their fates in the hands of the 'learned shamans', some of whom are genuine..., some of whom are not.

[Hidden in reply to Dmactds]

God bless you. I too have been diagnosed with a long list of 'designer diseases. I'm nearly 70. It's almost as if the industry ' wants me to participate in old people medical complaints 😏