Had one done yesterday and asked the nurse for a print out now wished I hadn't, I keep going on sites to see what the results mean and I still don't understand them.
I am trying to tell myself I am how I am and these numbers or percentages really don't matter to me I will just leave them for the experts who keep me well.
polly
Hi
Did you get the print out? if so there is a web site you can go into and it will explain all.
Better still call the BLF number and ask to speak with a nurse, he/she will explain it in great detail. What was the fev1 result.
David
The Spirometry Test is divided into sections which is how your lung capacity is functioning; each section is rated on how your lung capacity has decreased since the previous test. The section that is Severe is the one where your lung capacity is well below what it should be and regarded as serious deterioration. Don't panic, though - even if you've got severe rating you can still breath. My own lung capacity is rated severe and I'm still here to tell the tale! Try to get as much exercise as possible, even walking [albeit slowly] is better than no exercise. Wishing you a worry-free Christmas and New Year.
Hi Polly
Spirometry results can be very confusing, one figure may not mean much until it's taken into consideration with other figures.
Please give us a call on the helpline - we can talk you through what the results mean.
Cheers
Jo
Thanks Jo, I am not so sure I really want more information. I know I am severe and will deal with it the best way I can, that does not mean pretending it is not there but working with what I have.
If I feel at a later date that I need more I will call BLF.
polly
Although I am one of those who usually likes to have all the info so I know what I am dealing with, I know exactly what you mean Polly. When my consultant put me into clinic recently when I was struggling my peak flows were down by over a 100 for my norm. I knew they would be but it still took me aback when I saw it. When they did spirometry, unusually I didn't want to know the result 'cos I knew it would be down. even though I knew it was because I was in trouble re lungs. I usually treat spirometry like horoscopes when they're good I think great and when there bad they're just numbers.
You seem to have found a way of dealing with it which suits you and it sounds quite a positive way to me. Long may you work with what you have Polly.
Love C xxx
I also think I want to know polly but do the ostrich act when confronted with numbers but next spirometry I will phone BLF keeping all helpful comments on here in mind when I do.
Great folk on this site as ever with a hopeful attitude and thanks for blog polly x
I am also an ostrich. The numbers frighten me so I just as if they are better or worse than last time
Hi, I can only say that we are really worried every year when my husband has his tests and last year he had moved in the severe range. He doesn't really know - why because the nurse who did the tests (who is lovely) did a really bad job of explaining them! BUT I have to say he is better than he has been for years and last year was really well had just finished the PR course so was fitter too. (I am touching wood as I type this!!) So my decision has been not to worry about the numbers! In fact I rarely think about them! I agree with an earlier post if he deteroriates then, I might need to know more and he may want to - then I will find out.
Many years ago - too many to remember - when I was pregnant with my first daughter my second scan revealed that her kidneys were full, so I was referred for a scan every week for 14 weeks and it never changed. When she was born there was a team of people waiting for her - the fear was her kidneys were not working! There was nothing wrong with her. I was really really worried as you can imagine the pregnancy was marred with anxiety - our family doctor who was an older GP - told me that sometimes the medics have too much information from tests etc. and you must look at the whole picture. I remember those words and try to put the whole COPD numbers in context - if he is well, seems to be coping - then I shall thank the Gods and not worry!! (too much!)
Good luck with the treadmill. Must get my husband one!
TAD xxx
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