Emphysema and chest infections

[seanf]

Hello. I have emphysema and have had 2 chest infections in 10 weeks. Do chest infections worsen my emphysema permanently?

[lizzyw]

I’m sorry you have been so unfortunate,chest infections are nasty but won’t necessarily leave permanent damage . I was in hospital for 3 weeks with a nasty infection but my next spirometry test showed no deterioration .I have emphysema too. .

[seanf in reply to lizzyw]

Hello Lizzy. Thanks for the reply. Sorry to hear you were in hospital with your chest infection but I am glad it did not deteriorate your condition. I wish you all the best. I only got diagnosed yesterday so am quite sad right now.

[Pam1952]

Hi Sean. No, not necessarily. I had 2 chest infections last year and they made no difference to my numbers. If you suspect that you have a chest infection you need to start your medication straight away. XXX

[seanf]

Thank you Pam.