Do I have COPD?

[Whatever4]

I have had 2 x-rays and 2 pulmonary function tests. The x-rays show hyper inflated lungs with emphysemic changes, however 2 years in a row I passed the pulmonary function test. I have never had a cough, wheezing or sputum. Also, most of my serum co2 levels have been slightly elevated for the last 7 years ( that makes me suspicious).

The pulmonary Dr didn’t confirm or deny a diagnosis of COPD.

I think I’m starting to feel the symptoms; feels like I can’t get enough oxygen, feels like I’m not able to exhale all the way, nausea at times and weakness. These are all intermittent but I am experiencing this a whole lot more JUST in the past week. Can I have some input here?

[Karenanne61]

What do you mean by 'passed' the lung function test? The numbers it provides, together with symptoms, scans etc should lead the consultant to make a diagnosis. They should then advise on an appropriate treatment plan. Emphysema does come under the umbrella of copd but I have copd with only minimal emphysema changes. Has the dr discussed treatment with you?

[Ergendl]

At present, I have COPD but my spirometry tests come out with low end of normal function. That doesn't mean I don't have emphysema with asthma overlap, just that it doesn't affect me too much in everyday life. I use regular singing for lung health classes to improve my breathing, and have also worked to improve my general fitness and diet since my moderate COPD diagnosis in 2018.

[MELLLL in reply to Ergendl]

My tests come out ratio 72%

94% predicted.

Is this the low end of normal?

[Ergendl in reply to MELLLL]

According to the BLF document you can click on here, it looks like the upper end of moderate. But I'm no expert - I just use the little machine I bought on Amazon to check my function now, as I no longer have check ups at the GP. Have a read: blf.org.uk/sites/default/fi...

[jackdup]

Do you have a copy of your Pulmonary Function Test results? If so there are a couple of numbers that will tell the current state of your lungs and COPD if you do have it.

[Caspiana]

Hello there. I wonder if you were saying that your lung function test results are normal when you say *passed*? Please remember there are a multitude of lung illnesses and not all of them are under the COPD umbrella. I would be digging further and trying to get an appointment with a lung consultant. We are lay people here and although we want to help we cannot possibly offer a diagnosis. In the meantime please keep moving. Sometimes people think getting out of breath means one should not exercise for fear of causing shortness of breath. But exercise really helps our lungs even though it can be uncomfortable. Have they prescribed anything for you? Sometimes a diagnosis takes time. I hope you get answers soon. Very best wishes to you. Cas 🙋‍♀️🐕