Hello fellow COPD Sufferers

[luv2knit38]

I'm glad I received an email about this group since I recently diagnosed with COPD. Funny thing is I was "diagnosed" with it years ago. But now that I'm 81 and my dtrs are concerned about my "wheezing", I went to a Pulmonary specialist which tested me and ordered a special CAT scan to see my breathing. He prescribed an inhaler that caused some scary side effects and another one which also produced bad side effects. So I wasted a couple of hundred dollars and refused to try any other inhalers that he prescribed and I stopped going to him. I go to my GP and he gets report from the specialist and he prescribes Albuterol, which I think is the med I was on at least 20 years ago when I was diagnosed with a "bronchial infection" and was given antibiotics and referred to a specialist who prescribed an inhaler and an emergency inhaler, which I stayed on for a while, until I felt better. So where do I go from here? Any suggestions?

Eleanor

[joyful4u]

Hi Eleanor, glad you've joined our group. When I was diagnosed with copd 3 yrs ago, it was rough on me too. I had a pulmonary dr that didn't listen to me & prescribed meds with bad side effects. I switched doctor & what a difference that made. I'm finally on an inhalent that works well for me & bet still, a doctor who listens, explains & encourages me. I pray you find this for you too. God bless, Terri

[R2B_Joe Partner]

Welcome to the group! Are you in the US or the UK?

[R2B_Michele_RRT Partner]

Hello luv2knit38, It sometimes takes time to find the inhaler combination that works for you and everyone is so different. There are many medications for COPD available. Some times the bad effects outweigh the good it may be doing.

[Collie4]

Doctors are supposed to make us feel better , not confused or worried.

It takes time to find the right meds that suit us , i tried 4 different preventer inhalers before a different doctor prescribed the one i use and am happy with.

Change your doctor if that’s possible.

I hope things go well for you.

[R2B_John Moderator]

Hi Eleanor! Delighted you are here with us. Maybe discuss with your doctor what the side effects are before you stop trying to find the right combination for you. We're all so different that even the doctors can't know for sure which is best for each individual.

Many COPDers will use two different long acting maintenance inhalers as well as some people also needing albuterol.

Again, welcome to the group.