Does anyone know what is classed as 'end of life c.o.p.d'

[seyre]

[Dors]

I have severe copd which is also termed as " end stage " which usually means nothing else medically can be done apart from surgery i guess.

[seyre in reply to Dors]

Thank you for that, I guess it was initially seeing it in writing that upset me but seeing your view made me feel better.

[Jo_BLFHelpline British Lung Foundation]

Hi Seyre

There is no established definiton of what end of life for COPD patients is - it is always based on the individual and a clinical judgement from the health professional would be needed.

Other specific factors would have to be assessed such as medication efficacy and probable life expectancy and the results of tests. End of life does not necessarily mean that the patient is going to die immediately.

Is this something you would like to chat with us? If so please call us on 03000 030 555 - we are here and available to talk now!

Best Wishes

Jo

[seyre in reply to Jo_BLFHelpline]

Thank you for that, I guess seeing it in print just took me unawares but considering I am on the transplant list it does make sense. You gave me strength back at an emotional time. Thanks again.

[123podmore]

i have copd emphysema chric bron i just try to forget it and live my life to the end

[Hergernt]

An Americanism that has crept into chat forums with as Jo has already posted no use in the treatment or assessment of patients in our health service.

Living life regardless of stages is sound advice.

[Hidden]

There are one or two people on here at end stage and have been for a number of years. All you can do is try to live your life as best you can and enjoy yourself as much as you can.

You might have years yet.

Bev x

[seyre in reply to Hidden]

Thank you for that, I think seeing it in writing on my hospital discharge paper for the first time took me aback and I now realise it does not mean imminently. Here's hoping for a bit of quality life although I am on the transplant list so got get good. Susie Q x

[Vicky_BLFHelpline]

Hi

I would definitely encourage you to start talking to us, I regularly speak to clients who have had end stage copd for years As its been stated before these definitions are not helpful. We can help you understand the classification, as they say knowledge is power

Regards

Vicky

03000 030 555

[derrylynne]

I am classed as at end stage. And have been for quite some time now. I could carry on for many years as long as I obey the rules and look after myself. Staying active, both in mind and body is essential. But as has been said end of life is an American thing. Most with copd die of something else before copd gets them

[fishtail]

I too am classed as "end stage", it really scared me at first,(still does at times),I try not to think about it and do my best to keep living as normal life as possible.Try to put it out of your mind,as worrying only makes things worse.x

[Hidden]

I know someone who was at end stage 4 with lung disease. He was told not to excercise but he did a bit and now he said he has gone back to stage 3!

Bev x