Hi everyone,
I've just joined the group, pleased to meet you
I've had COPD (officially) for almost 10 years, but on reflection it's more like 15 years and yes, I smoked, but not heavily. I did work in a smokey situation for some years and I'm sure it contributed. I'm at a stage now where my meds don't seem to be affective and I get pain in my ribs, which my Doc' said is most likely Costochondritis, due to (years of) coughing. I've also put on 4 stone in weight and have diabetes 2...not because I over eat, but because I can't breath, I can't walk more than 100 yards without sitting. Anyway, you get the picture.
I then read in the Guardian of a proceedure to lose weight by swallowing a gastric balloon that lasts for 3 -4 months, naturallly dispursing. I mention this, because it would help with breathing; stress on joints; diabetes and, in the long term costs less than popping pills for complaints. But it is up to the CCG as to whether it is funded. Does anyone know any more information?