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Hi I was diagnosed with COPD about 18 months ago. I think its emphysemia how do i tell the difference? Also should I be offered a chest X-ray as havent had 1 for about 5 years? Last question: Also how do I find out about any local groups or excersise classes as my nurse doesnt seem to know? Thank you all. x

[Puffthemagicdragon]

Google " Breathe Easy group " and your local area. Join them and they should be able to help you with most questions you would like answering. We will also try to answer anything you care to ask.

I'll leave the other questions to the more experienced among us !

[Hidden in reply to Puffthemagicdragon]

thank you Puffthemagicdragon - am googling it now xx ps luv ur name x

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You should also enter your postcode in the website 'In your area' to find a respiratory instructor and exercise classes.

blf.org.uk/InYourArea

Not all instructors have been input to the website yet, so if nothing comes up, try again in a few weeks!

You should ask your GP to be referrred to a course of Pulmonary Rehabilitation where you will learn to exercise safely with a lung condition.

If they cannot refer you for any reason, ask their suggestions for other ways you can keep active. They should be able to put you on the Exercise Referral Scheme.

Walking is a great way to keep active, you can search the ramblers website for health walks in your area:

ramblers.org.uk/areas_groups

or Extend classes are good for people with long term health conditions:

extend.org.uk/classes

there should also be posters in your local community centres about exercise classes.

Remember to ALWAYS get a referral from a healthcare professional to whichever exercise you fancy doing!

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"I was diagnosed with COPD about 18 months ago. I think its emphysemia how do i tell the difference?"

Hello hypercat. There are several chest complaints that come under the umbrella title of COPD, emphysema being one of them, so they are not different conditions.

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Thank you all for your answers I will follow them up. xxx