COPD advice

[Janzo54]

I have recently had my copd review with the nurse and a first Spiromatary test in 4 years.

Four years ago my reading was FEV1 76% and now its FEV1 47% so I was shocked. I have had a recent virus infection doing the rounds but this does seem to be very different readings. I have asked to be re-tested to double check the result.

Just wondered if anyone had any thoughts on this please? I am quite active and focused on getting fitter this year going to the gym once a week and swim plus walking. I have noticed more breathlessness on walking over the last year or so. Of course I am aware its a progressive disease but these readings have upset me.

Haven't posted in a long while as had so much going in in these last couple years, would appreciate anyone responding if you have a spare moment.

thanks,

Janzo

[Izb1]

Can't advise Janzo but wanted to say that numbers dont always mean anything, its how you feel. The fact that you have recently had an infection could account for the low reading. I really wouldn't worry too much x

[Janzo54 in reply to Izb1]

thanks for kind encouragement and normally im a very positive person but the nurse didnt seem to be very optimistic about the future! 🙄

[Izb1 in reply to Janzo54]

You just keep being positive your nurse should be giving encouragement not making you worry. I am sure your next test will show a very different result x

[Janzo54 in reply to Izb1]

yes thats wise thank you. I think I ask to be retested x

[tomhatha]

INSTEAD OF TOO MANY WORKOUTS SPEND AN HOUR EACH DAY SINGING AND YOU'LLGET BETTER RESULTS THAT IS HOW I GOT MY' RESULTS BETWEEN 96 AND 98 EVERY TIME. THE ONLY THING IS YOU MUST KEEP IT UP , IT ALSO MAKES YOU FEEL BETTER SINGING SO IT HELPS YOUR MOOD ALSO. GOOD LUCK

[Alberta56 in reply to tomhatha]

Perhaps Janzo should do both.

[Janzo54 in reply to Alberta56]

yes i like singing and could do it much more often

[hypercat54]

Hi it does seem a lot lower than before but results can be confusing sometimes. I am unable to get a spirometry test done (last one was 4 years ago) as my surgery don't do them any more. I asked to be referred to the hospital instead but they refused on the principle they wouldn't do it either as I am not severe or anything.

I am a bit upset by this as I want to know my figures. But my respiratory nurse said they can tell what level I am by how I am and feel. As I feel ok, ok maybe a bit more breathless sometimes, I guess I will just have to take this instead.

[Janzo54 in reply to hypercat54]

that sounds like my story! First test in four years. I want to ask for referral to Brompton as they are the experts.

[Homely2]

If you get an electronic spirometer, as well as doing your peak flow it will also do your fev1.

If you do your own fev1 regularly you will get to understand how your fev1 changes.

My own fev1 changes a lot in one day, up and down all the time.

[Janzo54 in reply to Homely2]

oh ok thats a great idea thanks

[Kristicats]

May be a lower reading due to infection at the time. Could you ask for another test to put your mind at rest? I test mine monthly (have a vitalagraph COPD 6 ) hand held spirometry that I bought a few years ago. Same one used at my GP surgery.

[Janzo54 in reply to Kristicats]

yes I will ask to be retested as not happy with result and definitely had infection