hi last week I was diagnosed with copd, I’m only 30 years old. I had asthma attacks when I was a kid but then asthma started to disappear not completely but it wasn’t as bad growing up. But knew it was still there if you get me. But now I’m worried as I’ve been diagnosed with copd and doctors never mentioned my past asthma records. Since finding out about this though ct scan. All I’m thinking about is dying. Can’t sleep I’m finding myself pacing around my house over thinking things. I’ve not left my house since I found out. All my motivation is gone eating has gone down hill. Constantly feeling un eased. Back pain and rib pain dose anyone else get these uncomfortable feelings? So I smoked around 15 to 20 a day I’ve now cut down to 4to5 I know it’s not given up but it’s a start. Every time I smoke I panic and stress myself out more but I find myself needing more fags when I stress. What was the easiest way for you to quit smoking ? I keep reading life expectancy is 10 to 20 years after diagnosis? How long will it take to get worse will I be dead before I’m 40 ?
copd overlap : hi last week I was... - Lung Conditions C...
copd overlap
Hello.welcome to the forum.There t lots of people here with copd,Donald is over 90,many over 80.
Smoking is a major cause..the main cause of copd so u should stop.
Keep fit and exercise, drink extra fluids and try to have a gd diet.
If u ask gp to refer u to pulmonary rehab,u will exercise & also learn a lot about Yr condition.ignore Google- look on ALUK website & reputable websites
Hi there pat. Thank you! My main concern was the asthma and it being rare to be diagnosed at my age. I do understand I need to quit smoking though pat I will do it 💪 ive smoked since I was 11 so it’s been a long time coming always hung about with older people and got me into smoking very young, so 19 years is a long time so I am going to struggle a little to begin with need to get all the products I can today patches chewing gum and what ever else. Just need to find a way to shut off soon as I try lay down and I get a twinge in my heart or somthing I instantly think the worse now I know there’s somthing definitely wrong 🤦 I’ll adjust I’m sure. Just a big thing at such a young age so just a little taken back. I really do appreciate your reply 
I hope all is well with you
Yes it must be hard.youvedone well to cut down. U could try sleeping propped up on more pillows - it can help. It takes time to adjust to knowing uhave a diagnosis and google isnt gd..can scare life out of you'll.There's a nurse helpline
0300 222 5800 - mon to Fri.
There's lot of copd-asthma òverlap friends here.im sure they'll b along soon xxx
Hi Monty, welcome to you. You’ve come to the right place for helpful advice, and friendly caring people. As Pat says, many people live long lives with COPD, asthma and other lung issues so l really don’t think you’ll be dead by 40. Giving up smoking altogether is a great idea and I do wish you well with that.
My hubby has COPD and was actually diagnosed in 2010 but I feel he had it some years before diagnosis. Lead the very best life you can and remember medications and research are improving all the time. Have you been referred to a good respiratory consultant? If not, speak to your GP about it and don’t take no for an answer. You will need to be proactive in getting the best care for you.
Wishing you well. Take care. Xxxx
Hi Monty! Welcome, I hope you find the support and experiences of we folks a help. I know when I stumbled upon the forum, scared and with no knowledge of respiratory disease it was a huge relief. It must've been a shock to you to get this diagnosis and I remember the feeling well. Well done for cutting down the ciggies Monty, you are doing really well. I think it was the single hardest part of all this and I firmly believe I couldn't have done it without the help of a wonderful guy attached to the surgery. Ask at your surgery, if you haven't already, they are so supportive and unjudgmental and will help with patches etc.
Pat and Sassy have, as ever, given wonderful advice: exercise, diet, fluids, avoiding people with colds etc, a good consultant (insist as Sassy said), do the pulmonary rehab course (again insist) avoid Google (!) and do not let it consume you! Many, many people live pretty normal lives with COPD and I'm sure you can too 😃 Use your stress for good, go for a good walk, do some breathing exercises cook something healthy and delicious . . . . . . . .you will find a way 😊
And please stay in touch, you have sincere support here. All the best, Laurie xx
If you're in the uk then only Google NHS websites, add UK to whatever you Google ie copd UK. You're only 30 so in a way lucky (I know it doesn't feel like it) to be diagnosed early, you can make changes now for the very best healthy future.
I would go back to the gp and ask about inhalers for your asthma - you don't have to see the gp allocated to you, check the surgery's website to see if there's one who specialises in respiratory issues and make an appointment with her/him. Also, as you've got asthma you should have an annual asthma review (although these have gone to pot since covid, I've not had one since 2019).
I've read here over the years that quitting cigs for some people can take a while for your lungs/body/mind to recover. When you think about it after an addiction of nearly 19 years the lungs won't recover fast but then everyone is different. Some felt so bad on quitting they decided "what's the point" and went back to smoking, a crying shame.
Be good to yourself, you won't be dead by 40.
There used to be a drug called Champix for quitting, it suited some people. You’ve made a fantastic start 👏 👌 👍 😀
For reassurance and support why don't you call the helpline 0300 222 5800 uk office hours
hi and welcome ….remember too you have cut down your nicotine consumption , big change , so well done .
Years since I stopped smoking , but it was a habit that was part of my life .
Contact the ALUK health line …I just had a quick look at QuitSmoking on Health Unlocked ….but not many up to date posts .
Best wishes .
Hi and welcome. Keep on keeping on trying to quit. It will be the best thing you can do. Follow the advice others have given about healthy living and you'll be here for yonks yet. Best wishes.
Your main problem at the moment Monty is that you are thinking that you have one big life threatening problem whereas what you have is a number of small problems that need tackling. The first must certainly be stop smoking which had no benefits what-so-ever. Thinking it relives stress is a myth as you will find when you stop and find better ways to do that. Learning how to live with COPD is a bit of a PITA, but once you get used to it and include it your regular routine you can more or less forget about it. People here will tell you how to do that, but always remember that self-help plays a major part in dealing with COPD. My very best wishes. Don & Smudge
Hi Monty,Welcome. First off relax. Copd is a progressive disease. It won't kill you fast. Did they tell you that there are 4 stages of COPD. What level are you, my guess would be # 1. If you are down to 4-6 cigs a day, convratulate yourself. Stress is very, very bad for your health, it causes all types of diseases. So deep breathe through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Do this several times a day, it clears your airways and lowers your stress too. I smoked for 50 years, since 14. Got COVID 3 years ago, was really sick for 3 weeks and when I recovered my urge for a cigarette was gone. But I stayed on Ecigs, only 4 ingredients nicotine, glycerin and glycol, the last two are food additives. The are over 600 ingredients in a regular cigarette. Tar is what destroys. Nicotine is the craving, like caffeine, if you're a coffee or soda drinker. Get a second opinion when you can, meanwhile exercise, walking is great, strength training for lungs is another. Enjoy your healthy food, if you're overweight lose it! Hard to breathe if you're fat. Anything can kill us at anytime, God decides our time. Have faith and practice positive thinking, enjoy yourself. I'm 77, and now I also have Sjogrens, which is giving me a very hard time. COPD, I'm now at stage 2. I was diagnosed probably 20 years ago with COPD, but I can still run if I have to. I live alone and take care of myself, and when I want a treat, I indulge. Sorry, this is long but I can't stand the thought of you obsessive worrying. Get yourself a rescue inhaler for when/if you have a breathing attack. You get out there and live your young life to the fullest! Btw, check your air quality, stay out of extreme heat/humidity and extreme 🥶 temps. God bless you, message me anytime if you want to talk.
🇺🇸🌹🎉
Hello monty and w elcome.Firstly there are many different lung diseases.
I found that i was told by surgery nurse that i had copd and that they use that, and asthma, to cover all lung problems . Now that doesnt help at all when it occurs. Have you seen a specialist? .. if not then ask to be referred . You have damaged your lungs with smoking and you have taken the first steps to repair but they can help and explain what else can be done. In the meantime people on this web site have a great deal of experience and knowledge , and there are also the nurses here who you can talk to and get advice in the meantime.
All the best.
Stressing won't help try not to I know its easier said than done I thought all those things myself like you when I found out I smoked like a chimney and to be honest I still smoke because I feel stressed all the time I've never getting over being told I know it sounds daft stupid and all that but what stresses one person might be nothing to another so I understand my sons freind his lung collapsed at first they hospital thought it was one of those things cause apparently young boys are more likely for that to happen but he was diagnosed with emphersima he was 25 at the time he now 28 you would be surprised how many young peaple have that take care
Welcome to the forum. I hope all the replies you have had convince you that you are not doomed to an early grave. Dr. Google ought to get rid of the nonsensical posts which worry people unnecessarily. Take up some sort of exercise (good for the serotine levels) and make up your mind to get as much enjoyment out of life as possible. Best wishes.
Hi chook, to put your mind at rest I was actually told by 2 doctors that copd will take 5 to 10 years off my old age. Please don't look at Google unless it's NHS copd and asthma, otherwise you will read things that either aren't true or will really upset you. I thought that I was given a death sentence until I found out more from proper copd sites, especially this one as everyone is so nice and helpful. Don't know what medication they have tried you on yet, if any, but you will find something that suits you and work well. As you have just been diagnosed please don't fret. As for smoking it took me 2 go's and finally did it by using a proper vaper ecigarette from a reputable vape shop. Its better than cigarettes and only has nicotine in it which will give you the hit you need but no harmful chemicals. I hope you look at the NHS website as its really helpful. Good luck chook and let us know how you get on. 😉
hi and welcome, I used to smoke 40 a day for 43 years never suffered with any respiratory issues or coughs and was diagnosed (emphysema)by accident as they were testing me for something else . I tried to stop smoking a few times but nothing seemed to work and I w as being encouraged by my GP , they suggested that I try vapeing and I stopped smoking in 2018 (saves you money as well) . My grandfather had COPD from a n early age never stopped smoking (cut down) and lived his nineties. Although progressive with a healthy lifestyle it can be very slow. I am always amazed by how many athletes have COPD/asthma and live healthy lives. Just make sure you get all the help you can from your doctor ie: inhalers, rescue packs and a referral to respiratory clinic. Good luck with the future. Kevin
Hi Monty93
you have come to the right place. The people on here are fantastic. I had lots of support when I was first diagnosed. They helped me make sense of it. I was like you thinking it was the end but I know from the wise words/advice on here that it isn’t.
Wishing you well. Take care x
Welcome Monty. This is a fantastic forum which gives good advice. What they are saying is correct first step is to stop smoking. I've been living with COPD now for about 15 years still play golf and travel. Life is what you make of it so go out and do the best you can. Good luck.
Hi monty and welcome to the site, I hope you don't feel like giving up as it's not all doom and gloom,my mum smoked all her life she had emphysema and lived till 81.I have copd,bronchiectasis and asthma never smoked at all and have had all three conditions for 10yrs still here and and doing the gym, eating healthy, walking everyday and making sure I drink plenty of water a day i also attended pulmonary rehab and it was really helpful to broaden my outlook on life and say I am going to do my best to kick this condition to have as long a life as I would have without it. What you do regarding smoking is your choice to make but you will be healthier for trying to reduce it.keep positive.
Good morning matey ghoust rider here i was told this in my late 40s in hospital itcu tracky in kneck induce comma for 12 weeeks my family thought i was going to die the doctors told my family they could not do anything for me now i have bad asma bronicles problems start of glue comma in eye new moaner / panic attacks reading & writing rough / there coruces the doctor can put you on rehab i 6 of these got me of the cigs as well breathing is bad on morning now using gym once a week / they told me to grow a pair & get back ot feet i am now 60 if you have family matey ask them for help there no tablet what can help you all the best
I found using nicotine replacement - patches and lozenges to be effective in giving up smoking and having support from your surgery is meant to be more successful than going it alone. I'd suggest you ask about pulmonary rehabilitation with your doctor, which I've also found very helpful. I don't know where you've heard that life expectancy is 10-20 years but it sounds like you've been given a diagnosis and then just left with it. FYI, I was diagnosed 14 years ago and I'm still here and I'm decades older than you. Try not to panic 🙂
Hello Monty, As you can see you’ve found a super forum. With stopping cigarettes take it one day or even one hour at a time. And know that the wave of craving does pass. You’ve done well to reduce smoking.
Accept that you have COPD and that you can live as well as can be with it, by following all the super advice given here. As well what is offered by the NHS. You’re worth it!
In addition to pulmonary rehab and exercise, you might like to try meditation as well. It does progressively help to stay calm. Also not too much caffeine and even occasionally camomile tea. 🤗
Hi Monty. I can see so much of myself in your reaction to the diagnosis. Fear, panic, overthinking, and feelings of defeat . I found a book by Alan Carr very helpful entitled "Easy way to stop smoking" Here is a link if you are interested:
ebay.co.uk/itm/314127098129...
Smoking cessation was the hardest step for me to take. I was an absolute cigarette junkie.
Haven't smoked for over 30 years but relapsed once and stopped again.
Wishing you well on your journey XXX💓
Sorry you're having health issues in this way, and for your anxiety. I'm older (74) with moderately severe emphysema and it's scary. Nothing is harder than quitting smoking, imo. I smoked from 1962 th 1997, when I quit.
I was diagnosed with COPD/emphysema in 2016 and need oxygen only at night, so far. I drive, get around and do my shopping, etc.
It may be a blessing that you were diagnosed now while still young. You have already begun to stop smoking. Get it down to no cigarettes a day. Keep in mind that you're choosing to quit and refuse to let nicotine control your fate.
I used the nicotine patch and it helped a lot. Don't dwell on statistical life expectancies, because you may well have a very long life and there are new discoveries and treatments all the time.
hi monty first things first stop worrying l was told l have emphysema 11 yrs ago had no idea at all and yes it has gotten worse only that 2yrs ago l had lung cancer and have had a complete lobe removed which has caused breathing problems to become much worse but l am 75 now ....copd will never be cured but with help and a good copd nurse it can be stabilised and you can live a good old ripe age all you have to do is look after your health take your inhalers regular and try to stop smoking if you find this difficult ask your gp for help
I used to smoke. A chain smoker for 40 years or more.
Get yourself onto Nicotine patches ASAP, and kick the smoking 100%, for good.
The physical habit is as much part of the addiction as the chemical part, so don't waste your time on any of the smoking substitutes.
That hand to mouth association has to be broken.
With the Patches you are getting your fix 24/7, after that it is mostly all in the mind.
It's not too difficult to do.
At age 30, you will be home and dry in a very short time.
I smoked as a teen, Im 61 now. I used high dose of Vit C, cant tell you the evidence, it just worked for me. I also needed to do something with my hands, I chose to make paper chains out of the chewing paper. You may chose to use other methods of distraction. Walk, cycle mindfullness.As a teen I recall cig in one hand and ventolin in the other. I shudder at my young self. I think the jury is out on vaping, my thoughts are its damp going into your lungs and I would avoid. Nothing will improve without stopping. I recomend Alan Carr book on stopping. # not the comedian. Good luck.
I have COPD with asthma overlap. I was diagnosed in 2015 with moderate COPD but improved my fitness levels through the advice from the good people on here, and improved to mild COPD (low end of normal) at my last check up.
Well done for starting to tackle your smoking. I tried cold turkey in the 1970s and it didn't work. In the end, I cut back like you have, learning to say no to a cigarette, identifying the times I really enjoyed one, and changing my behaviour to counter that, like no longer drinking coffee and having tea instead. Then I set the date I became a non-smoker a couple of weeks before: 1st August 1985. I haven't smoked since.
Wishing you all the best. Keep coming back here. Follow the people who you feel can support you. Let us help you on your journey through this tough patch.
Hello Monty 93
Welcome to the forum and I am so sorry to hear how stressed and worried you are about your diagnosis.
The members have some great advice here and you have come to the right place to get support and information. As Patk1 mentioned, you can call us at the helpline, we can talk through your diagnosis discuss next steps and help you get support to stop smoking.
Do give us a call on 0300 222 5800 Mon -Fri 9.15-5pm
Take care
Helpline Team
Hi Monty93
I'm 33, and I suspect I've had chronic bronchitis for about 10 years now. I was diagnosed with asthma around 2014, but I suspect that I was misdiagnosed, and I said so at the time.
My condition has been steadily getting worse, but bear in mind, it's been over the course of 10 years, and I still lead a relatively normal life.
When you were diagnosed, did they tell you if you have the emphysema type of COPD or the chronic bronchitis type of COPD?
COPD is am umbrella term that encompasses both emphysema and chronic bronchitis but there is a difference between them. You may have both to some degree or you may not.
Personally, I think that I lean heavily to the chronic bronchitis end of the spectrum. The spirometries I have done have all been normal, but I get many chest infections and excessive mucus is a problem every single day.
I know this is scary, but you're not dead yet. People can live for decades with COPD.
You can't change what has happened, but you can start making better choices for tomorrow. I highly recommend that you quit smoking immediately as continuing to smoke is literally pouring fuel on the fire of your condition.
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