Hi All,
This is my first post and I just wanted to say Thank you. I’ve been reading all your posts for 3 years now and it is the only place I find complete comfort. I’m sure most are aware that this AMAZING community can really lift us when we’re feeling down. Just by sharing your own fears, experiences and illnesses really makes it easier to deal with my own struggle. I know when I can’t sleep at night, scared for the future or confused about my Undiognosed condition (after my husband) this is the place I turn to. So thank you for helping!
Just for a quick run down... I have had Asthma since I was young and stupidly smoked (average 12/day) from 18-34 (on and off) I haven’t touched a cigarette since I quit and never will again!
I started getting sob after my wisdom teeth removal in 2016 (6 months after I quit smoking). I get sick A LOT more than I ever have and just don’t feel right. My sob isn’t all the time but I would say once a month. I have regular phlegm production and cough. I have significantly reduced the amount of exercise, mainly walking and sometimes weights. I used to be a great runner and now the thought of running long distances scares me!
I’ve been to multiple pulmonary specialists, had multiple pft’s, all blood test (alpha 1 etc) , ct scans etc etc and no diagnosis. It’s like I have all the symptoms of mild/moderate copd (bronchitis) but nothing on paper! It’s such a struggle. I’m on symbicort for my asthma and my pulmonary specialist gave me a script for atrovent which I now take daily. I believe that has helped a bit.
I feel that I’m in the early stages and drs can’t diagnose yet. I’m petrified as I have two beautiful young girls 2 & 5 and I need to be around! I just can’t see myself living a long life if I have this sob etc how long can you live with this??? I feel I’ve let them down.
Anyway, thanks for listening and I hope to get to know you all more. Sending hugs and strength to all xx