Had to cancel my Lung function tests

[Otto11]

To say I'm gutted is an understatement. After waiting sooo long for some answers I've had to cancel my appointment next week for a Full Lung Function Test & 6 minute walk test (never had this before) as I have a chest infection & currently taking Doxycycline. When I called the hospital they said they don't know when they will be able to fit me in again so just have to wait.

Some of you may remember I was diagnosed with lung nodules in 2017 & monitored for 3 years with CT's then the last CT in 2020 showed mild Bronchiectasis. As lockdown then happened I have not yet been seen but was prescribed Carbocystine after my GP contacted them about the amount of stuff I was coughing up. I've had a few phone calls during lockdown & the various consultants have said no I don't have Bronchiectasis as I dot have symptoms ? Yes I do then they said yes you do have it but its mild so we will discharge you to GP care. This has gone on till last year when I had Covid then a nasty infection last November since then I've been breathless. My Rhuematologist did a full body CT in July before referring me to the long Covid clinic which showed Atelectasis in both lungs which is why my Respiratory consultant has asked for new Lung function tests. (abbreviated version)

So now more waiting for answers. My hubby has been telling me for weeks he thought I had a chest infection but I didn't have a temperature so didn't agree. I actually now think he's been right all along. Feeling annoyed & sorry for myself & just needed to rant.

[Damon1864 Volunteer]

So sorry to hear that hope you are better soon. I hope you won't have to wait to long for another appointment. Have a lovely day and take care 😊 Bernadette and Jack 🐕 xxxxxxx 🌻🌻

[Will57 in reply to Damon1864]

The problem is that they are unable to carry out any tests whilst your taking antibiotics

[garshe in reply to Will57]

That's correct .If you are on antibiotics the test wont be accurate. Have to be off antibiotics and steroids for at least a month before test.xxSheila💕

[Otto11 in reply to garshe]

Thanks. Im not even sure I need the antibiotics. I havnt been seen by GP they just order antibiotics & dont let you through the door if you mention chests. I did a lateral flow test which was negative. So frustrated knowing it will be next year then who knows when for the actual follow up. ☹️ x

[Otto11 in reply to Will57]

I do understand but its just so frustrating after waiting so long.

[Otto11 in reply to Damon1864]

Thank you. x

[Alberta56]

That is sad. No wonder you are gutted. I hope it won't be too long before you get a new test and find out just what is going on. xxx

[Otto11 in reply to Alberta56]

Thank you 🤞🤞 x

[anng18]

Hi Otto,

I've just done something similar to you - no temperature - so can't have an infection. How wrong I was - I've just finished a course of steroids and anti-biotics, and can now see that I have had something lingering for months.

Very annoying about having to cancel your appointment - let's hope you don't have to wait too long for another appointment.

All the best.

[Otto11]

Hi thanks. I'm on Biologic injections for my RA & they can mask the symptoms so I just didn't realise. I'm not any better either so guess im going to have to call my GP again. Yes very annoying but nothing I can do x

[watergazer]

rant away- gosh thats awful waiting all that time then having to cancel with no idea when it can be done. Fingers crossed they will call you fairly soon when you’re rid of the steroids and antibiotics Take care of yourself. Xx

[Otto11 in reply to watergazer]

Thank you. Im already listening for the letter box. Very frustrating ☹️

[eleanordigby]

You’d obviously reached the top of the waiting list so fingers crossed you’ll get a new appointment quicker than you think. By the way I get lots of chest infections and quite often no temperature. I go by sputum colour & consistency and how I actually feel

[Otto11 in reply to eleanordigby]

Thank you. That's really good to know. Very helpful. x