When to see a specialist doe copd asthma?

[Toomuchinfo]

Hi, wondering when can you see a lung specialist for mild copd in the uk? Having seen a few doctors I have been told I have asthma then I dont have asthma then told I have copd then told I probably dont have copd. I really just want some answers and I'm willing to go private if that would help. Also are there other tests other than spirometry to diagnose mild COPD? Thanks in advance

[R2B_John Moderator]

I'm not in the UK, but can maybe help shed some light. Besides simple spirometry, a full Pulmonary Function Test would be most helpful in ascertaining both the severity of your respiratory issues as well as indicating whether it is COPD or asthma (or ACOS which is asthma COPD Overlap syndrome). It will also verify that the issue is obstructive vs restrictive.

Many pulmonologists here in the US also order a CT scan to check for nodules or bullae.

Hope this helps a bit. Keep us posted.

[Kristicats]

Usually COPD is diagnosed with a spirometry test Many GPs won’t refer you to a respiratory physician unless your having serious problems . You could ask for a referral though. A CT scan would ascertain the form of copd you have I.e emphysema or chronic bronchitis .

A private consultation with a respiratory physician would cost around£200 and a private chest CT scan around £300. I only managed to get referred to a resp physician because I coughed up some blood and he sent me for a ct scan.

[Toomuchinfo in reply to Kristicats]

Thanks for your reply and hope you are well after coughing up blood.

[Bet31 in reply to Toomuchinfo]

I was sent for tests to determine whether I had copd or not - I had moderate. Never seen a lung specialist only nurse yearly at GP practice. I am in Scotland.

[Toomuchinfo in reply to Bet31]

What kind of tests? and were you on Inhalers before testing?

[Bet31 in reply to Toomuchinfo]

Yes for asthma now on fostair. I had x-ray and breathing tests at the hospital, my spirometer tests were always rubbish got the other breathing test can't remember what it was called at GP surgery. I was diagnosed as moderate as I did and do zumba, aqua Zuma, aqua fit, Pilates and pump every week. Done the pulmonary rehab classes for 6 weeks very good do it if offered. I can think iv had a couple of chest infections since I stopped smoking 12 years ago. Chest exercises with small hand weights help open up chest and help breathing learnt that at pulmonary rehab and lots ofvother things. Take care

[Kristicats in reply to Toomuchinfo]

Yes was only minor,once. Not had any since.