how long does it take before it takes hold?

[bipolar1]

just been diagnosed how long does it take to get bad?

[1968]

Hi

That depends on a lot of factors, do you smoke and if so you need to stop, have you had the breathing test which tests fev, call the BLF help line and you can even speak with a BLF nurse, dont google to much into Emp as it doesn't read well. There are loads of things you can do to manage this condition, staying fit and active is one big thing, read through the blogs and questions.

David 1968

[Gordon57]

We're back to that piece of string again - everyone is different. One person could go downhill very quickly where many others could remain stable for years. The medication helps, the tablets, inhalers and whatever else are all there to try and stop the condition from getting any worse.

A big problem is if you smoke, that is certainly not helping. On the other hand, stopping smoking brings it's own problems for many.

Above all, don't panic! Call the BLF helpline, have a chat with someone there. They usually take your number and call you back. Have a read of other blogs on here but don't get spooked by what some websites tell you.

As you move along you will be seen by people from hospital, your GP, nurses - they will check you over and see just what stage you are at, how bad it is, and then tell you to carry on as normal and they'll see you in so many years.

Age, weight, work, home - all play a part in the overall diagnosis.

[derrylynne]

The problem is you don't give any information. What is your fev1 at the moment and age. Lots of factors involved. Smoking though will cause rapid worsening, so if you smoke, however hard it is, quit. You will when you know you life depends on it. I used to smoke 25 a day till I realised it really was quit or die. I have had copd, emphysema the main component, for 25 years now. And it is only this month that i started on ambulatory oxygen. I had many years stable, before for some reason, it bumped down several levels all at once. We are all different. Keep positive. Keep active. And if you only have mild it will be many years before you become really ill through it.

[Hidden]

Hi bipolar I totally agree with the above. If you take good care of yourself it might never progress or very little. There are no hard and fast rules. Just do what you can to stay as healthy as possible and remember to enjoy life as much as possible. x