Long Term Lung Problems.

[Splodge60]

I have long term issues with my lungs, with a history of collapsed lung, pneumonia, pleurisy, pleural effusion, regular chest pains, hospitalisation due to upper and lower RTI. Pain is often a debilitating factor causing difficulties in other areas. Latest new diagnosis is Bronchiectasis which I know little about. I don’t understand the medication you all talk about. On Friday 14th I’m having a Bronchoscopy on lungs. Does it hurt, do you get a general anas? I know a lot about liver disease as I have cirrhosis and metabolic syndrome. How do these many things interact and affect each other. Add to the mix diabetes and you will understand some of my dilemmas! Anyone else who can relate and comments from a lung perspective?

[annienell]

Hello Splodge, several of our members have had a Bronchoscopy, so I hope they will be along soon to give a fellow patient's perspective.

I found a factsheet issued by Southampton Hospital. I assume the details would be the same at most hospitals - have a look here: uhs.nhs.uk/Media/Controlled...

In answer to your main questions, it looks as though there may be some discomfort, but you should not find it painful as you will be sedated.

Good luck! I hope you get the answers you need.

[wheezyof]

Hi there,

Bronchoscopy sounds scarier than t is. I was terrified before I had mine done, now I look back and wonder why.

You will be given something to help you relax if you let the doctor know how worried you are. Your nose and throat will be sprayed with anaesthetic, that's the only nasty bit, it stings a bit as they spray it but of course it then numbs you, so it's only for a second.

Then a very tiny camera is fed via your nose or ( as in my case as my nose was too small)via your throat into your lung. I expected to gag, cough, be sick - nothing, I didn't feel a thing.

You are allowed time to recover and then a drink.

As for our medication, well there are lots of different types.

Inhalers : bronchodilators - to open the air ways.

Steroid - to strengthen the lungs

Combined - both of the above together

And some that act on the reflex nerves to help prevent the overlong coughing spasms that can happen - they do not stop you coughing completely as you need to cough.

Antibiotics - often a low dose 3x's weekly to hold the bugs at bay - bronchiectasis causes baggy mucus filled pockets in the lungs, perfect breeding grounds for bugs

A stronger antibiotic as a rescue pack, often with a steroid as well, to be taken if you have a flare up.

Then some people take a medication to loosen the mucus.

There are some people who use nebulisers too. They are just another way of taking inhaled drugs.

You can find out more details and more accuracy on The British Lung Foundation website.

Hope this great long tome helps xx

[Hacienda in reply to wheezyof]

Perfect Explanation Hun, Took the words out of my Mouth. xxx

[wheezyof in reply to Hacienda]

Thank you xx

[Hidden]

As regards multiple ailments and losing track of what's going on, I can relate to that. I'm knocking on a bit now and it's a while since I came to the conclusion I would just have to accept what I'm told and rely on the medics to get it right. Not an easy thing to do when you read of the many cock-ups made, but then it's only those cases that get the publicity. To go through procedures simply to put a name to something which you are going to have to learn to live with anyway just reduces your quality of life. If that's how you feel I've found that the medics understand. I'm not referring to your Bronchoscopy question in particular which others have answered for you.

[cofdrop-UK]

Hi Splodge, You have had a lot to deal with. We broch old timers (many of whom have multiple conditions to deal with too) are very guilty of talking of medictions on here as if everyone knows what we are talking about, and using short forms - apologies.

If there is anything specific you need to know, statements you wish to be explained or just need to chat about bronchiectasis, please ask away - there are quite a few folks on here with brochiectasis who will be happy to help/support.

Love cx