In December I wrote a blog asking 'Can I expect more" after my GP diagnosed COPD and gave me a printout telling me I had up to 2 years to live.
People on here gave me were great. Most said get a second opinion or change my GP.
This week I saw another GP in the same practice and asked him all the questions I gleaned from these blogs, especially Nurse Vicky Barber and Aunty Mary and many others.
The new Doctor immediately offered to review the single lung function test I had last August and the notes from my previous doctor.
His verdict (Subject to consulting a colleague to make sure) is that I have NEVER had COPD.
In his opinion I have mild ASTHMA!
I left with an appointment to see the asthma nurse and told to use the inhaler more.
Can you believe that! After six months of waiting to die to be told it was a wrong diagnosis
I was so delighted and happy I went straight from the Doc's to the supermarket to surprise my wife by doing the weekly shopping.
I had hardly started shopping when the pains in my sides were crippling me and the effort it took get through the checkout was awful.
Is that Asthma?
Of course I am extremely relieved with these developments but why am I so suspicious of the diagnosis.
At least the Doctor acknowledged I had been depressed and asked me to see him should I start to feel bad again. He also accepted me as a patient so long as I put the request in writing.
I should be 'cock a hoop' and planning holidays and such but I am not because I am not sure I still have the right diagnosis.
Believe me I truly really want the Doctor to be right.
When I changed my doctor he got me an appointment with the pulmonary department at a local hospital. Breathing tests were done in a booth so no outside conditions in the air would influence the tests. I also had a CT scan. In my opinion it's the most surefire way to find out if you have COPD or not.
I have read your blog several times and really sympathise with your uncertainty. You need faith in your doctor, and if you haven't, a change of practice (on recommendation) or, if you can afford it, go private. (Apologise if you cant) It is important to get a diagnosis that you can trust.
I dont think you are paranoid - just nervous that you dont have the right diagnosis. You have approached the BLF. Try again because they can read your message and will give you further advice. Good luck for a healthier new year. love Annie80
I think it is only natural that you feel suspicious so don't beat yourself up. Ask to be referred for anything that is going to put your mind at rest. There is lots of good advice on here and Stitch is right, the 2 years is rubbish anyway. Sounds like that Dr could do with re educating. Chin up, you'll be fine. x
I personally think you need to request an appointment with a specialist - that is your right. Did you use your inhaler when you got your pains? Why don't you give BLF a call. But I think your original doctor was a fool telling you that and not referring you at that time he needs a good kick up the .....,krjeg u hhghwuwhgvh whoops fingers slipped
Janet
(:
Alan, You are definitely not paranoid. I would still be asking for (insisting on) a referral to a respiratory consultant. It is a fact that many GPs cannot differentiate between COPD and asthma. There was a poll, can't remember all the details but I think it was about 80% got it wrong. So you need to see someone who can undertake the proper tests; spirometry, xrays, CT scan, etc. Don't put up with second best. Good luck. x
As others have advised, please ask to be refered to pulmonary department for full Lung function tests to determine your condition & advice of a respiratory consultant.
I cannot offer anything more than is already here. I hope you get it sorted so at least you know where you are working with it xxxxx
Hi at least you know you have more than 2 years to live! I suffer with asthma and I have never had pains in my side like you describe. It doesn't sound asthma-related.
I agree with the advice - go back to your doctors and ask for some more tests.
Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.
Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.
What A Birthday I Had !
Phyllocontin my story 
update: tomorrow I’m at the hospital for suspected head & neck cancer
Yendo’s history with lung problems.
A long wait but finally got there I think
