Questioning the value of a follow up and a battery of tests

[ck101]

Had a friend over last night, he’s a Radiologist and we were discussing my current situation. He can organise a CT at a moments notice at zero cost.

An ex smoker I have Chronic Bronchitis and Small Airways Disease. I had a raft of tests back when I was diagnosed in ‘04 and was planning another follow up to get a new baseline.

I’m doing ok, happy to have made progress recently with Singulair and an old favourite Becotide after a medication hiatus. I can run 5k and walk 5k every second day and don’t suffer with exacerbations.

So this is my thinking, I have a CT scan and a PFT and they throw up something, what’s the benefit? I don’t smoke and avoid all triggers. I get my yearly jab and exercise. If I find my CB, Asthma and SAD has evolved to mild Emphysema there’s going to be a significant toll on my mental health.

So given my situation the only benefit would be a CT scan to rule out the big C, I don’t smoke anymore. If there’s a depreciation in my condition on paper there’s little more can be done anyway over and above what I’m already doing. If I find myself suffering with increased sputum or breathlessness I can get my PCP to give me a trial of Trelegy etc.

Am I correct in my thinking and continue to go on as I am?

Thanks,

CK.

[Badbessie]

To me this is very much a personal choice. My own personal inclination would be to go for CT scan tests etc. If the Scan etc shows no change it would be a great reassurance that I was doing the right things. Secondly if did not get the scan and I went downhill in two years time and it was found that the condition could have had a much better outcome if I had had the scan now, mentally I would be kicking myself for not grabbing the opportunity when I had the chance. Personally I do not think there is a right or wrong answer to your question at the end it is what is best for your psychological and physical health.

[Caspiana]

Hmmm.... 🤔 I see your point. I have a friend who never tests for anything unless there is pain or discomfort. Says he doesn't need any stress. And if there is anything wrong that's just fate. I don't know that I agree with it, but it is a choice you are free to make about your own health. If you feel good and can run 5k I think you are in good shape. And if you are happy that's even more important. I think you already know what you want to do. Best wishes to you. 🍁

[johnderby]

Hi. You certainly seem to be in a very good place at the moment and are doing all the right things to help you stay that way. Of course, it's your own personal choice, so go with your instinct. John

[sassy59]

Wishing you well ck, I’m sure you’ll make the right decision for you. You’re body, you’re choice. You seem to be doing well so far which is brilliant. Xxxxx

[ck101]

Thanks for your responses all, such a great community here 🙌🙌👍👍Will keep you posted....

[watergazer]

It’s your own personal choice ck. I feel there are pros and cons to whatever you choose Go with what you feel best with. X

[tomc]

Sometimes, Ignorance is best, My Granny Rennie used to say "what you don`t know you winnie miss" But, sometimes I think knowledge is the best instructor. wishing you well in whatever you decide. Tom.

[ck101]

I know some of you have offered your opinions here so it’s best to provide an update. Ongoing mysterious pleural type back pains and some strange breathlessness has convinced me to press ahead with a CT scan. I’ll be in the Donut 🍩 in the morning.

[HungryHufflepuff in reply to ck101]

Wishing you all the best for your scan 🤞