How did that happen? Severe asthma/COPD? age 48, no symptoms, FEV1 31.38% MRC scale 2-3

[Sokrackers]

Hi guys beware newbie on this site, I have just been diagnosed. What a shocker. Has anyone got any similar experience? I feel a little too young for this, also no symptoms (or am I too busy to notice and take care of myself?) How was it for you?

[Hidden]

Welcome to the site! I care for my husband who suffers with severe Copd. He was diagnosed about 10'yrs ago (66 yrs old now) but was probably suffering about five years before that. For him it has been a slow progression of the disease. His lung function is now at 27% and it is very noticeabl em, he has many symptoms.

I would Advise you to ring the BLF helpline - click on the balloon - to ask their advise. Each person seems to have a different experience with Copd. The best of luck TAD xx

[casper99]

Hi Sokrackers, hello and welcome. Everyone is shocked when first diagnosed. I'm much calmer now after learning more about it on here.

I don't really understand numbers but there will be plenty of more knowledgeable members along to welcome you and answer any questions you have.

Don't bother surfing the net about it because you'll just scare the life out of yourself. This is the best place to start learning how to care of yourself because there are many on here that have had it for years and years. xx

[CornishBrian]

About the same for me Sokrackers but nearly 30 years ago. I should have been aware because it caused my grand dads demise and my dad is very poorly with it...but I've survived. Had to modify my life in a few ways, had to stop doing a few things that I enjoy or face the results ut then I've been able to take on new challenges too. My answer....medications are fine and great fot controlling symptoms but be on the look out for alternatives too. You will no doubt have been given the ventolin inhaler..whats your instructions? Mine were take two puffs, four times a day and then take extra puffs as and when needed. Before I retired, I would use one ventolin unit a week, just to cope but I have now found out that breathing control works for almost all occassons....ventolin is now just a safeguard and when I pick up a chest infection. The other thing is as much exercise as you can get....if you fall for the dreaded "I'll take to my bed and wait for the inevitable" then you will loose.My advise...bretahing control, good, sensible diet, five small meals instead of three large ones and exercise. Carry your ventolin just in case but just get on with your life.

[PompeyBob in reply to CornishBrian]

Hi Cornish excellent advice I still work and I only xfer 25% from the lungs but it does affect everyone differently but the exercise and keeping yourself active is perfect advice.

[Nige420]

Hi sokrakers

I'm just about to turn 51 and was diagnosed with severe COPD 18 months ago. I read up on this illness on tinternet and agree with Casper99 don't waste your time you will only end up worrying yourself more. Personally I think the best thing you can do is stop smoking eat healthy and try and get some exercise.

I find the steam room and a half hour - 45 minute swim a few times a week seems to help but everyone's different, keep your pecker up you've a good few years left in you yet.

[Sokrackers]

Hi guys thanks for the warm welcome. I think getting over the shock is the hardest thing 'is this for real?'

CornishBrian I am on symbicort 200/6 2 in the am and 2 in the pm. It has really helped my sats are up to 95% which was a concern when I got blue lips etc! Also my spirometer reading has gone up to 300 whereas before it bearly got off the mark so all is looking better.

I know I must make an effort to excercise more - i have so many excuses! swimming is so good for people with breathing difficullties as you breathe through your nose not your mouth (yes I read the book 'close your mouth' Buteyo breathing or however you spell it.

So thanks again guys - so do we have a chat facility on this site?

[Biddy_ALUK Partner British Lung Foundation]

Hello Sokrackers,

If you have any medical questions or want to discuss your results, give us a call on the Helpline 03000 030 555 and we can arrange for one of our respiratory nurses to call you back for a chat.

Regards,

Biddy

[Cyberpunk]

Hi am 55 and was diagnosed when I was 42 and noticed my breathing wasn't right from about the age of 38 but just put it down to smoking stopped smoking but gone down hill the last six months going to see specialist next week but been told it's just the progression so keep plodding on that's all you can do hope your feeling ok

[Riverfrog]

Hi Sokrackers,

Just found your entry here. I empathise with you on the news of your diagnosis.

It is good that at least you have no symptoms.

I am curious as to how you came to have the tests done to find this out, was this found on a routine health check.?