Severe breathlessness

[dogBill]

Hi All.

New here, 70 yo male. I was diagnosed with sarcoidosis in the lungs over 40 years ago and was told that I had lost some lung capacity. I have been able to compensate for this until last year. I have led a very active life until recently - hill running, climbing, backpacking etc.

I noticed my breathing was becoming laboured last year and went to my GP. I have had heart tests and x-rays, an initial consultation with a chest physician and finally a CT scan last week. I have been put on oxygen.

The problem is that I now find it difficult to walk any distance, getting dressed/undressed takes 20 mins. Even when on oxygen I can get severly breathless to the point of panic.

I see the consultant next week.

I would appreciate any comment or suggestions

[sassy59]

Welcome to the forum dogBill and sorry to hear you’ve not been doing as well of late.

I am carer for my husband Pete and he was diagnosed with sarcoidosis in 1991 and COPD in 2010. He’s 66 and not on oxygen but is breathing is worse and he has coronary artery disease too.

I’m pleased you are seeing your consultant next week and be sure to tell him everything, write things down if necessary. Good luck to you. Xxxxxx

[dogBill in reply to sassy59]

Thanks Sassy, will let folks know next week. Keep safe Bill

[lKeith]

dogBill

Welcome to the forum. Breathlessness is a common thing with lung disease of any sort, it's good that you have kept yourself in shape over the years and this should stand you in good stead. Try to keep as active as you can without overdoing it, pace yourself, eat well but get used to the lack of energy & breath. I too had lead a very active life but the lungs have now given up, I find it difficult to accept but you have to or you drive yourself mad with frustration. Getting dressed/undressed is usually a problem & takes time, walking too, do not panic it is commonplace. Accept you have a lung problem and work with it not against it. It won't get better but you might drive yourself senseless in the meantime. Depending on your age you may find assistance with transplant, lung reduction, coils , valves, or even stem cell treatments. Talk to your specialist about options & tell him/her about your panic attacks. You may get a course of Lorazepan to calm you down.

IKeith

[dogBill in reply to lKeith]

Thanks Keith keep safe Bill

[Dedalus]

Hope you get some answers from your consultant next week. Please keep us updated. All best wishes