Breathing Test

[Madonna1]

Hi everyone, I hope your all doing okay. I went to the hospital yesterday and had a lung breathing test, she put me through my paces I was knackered by the time she was finished with me..

Apart from breathing in a machine she got me to walk for 6 minutes, before I started she asked me how my lower legs are any aching which is odd as I am having problems with my lower legs..

Does anyone no why she asked about lower legs.

[R2B_John Moderator]

I may not explain quite scientifically, but the cells have mitochondria in them. Mitochodria is called the "powerhouse of the cell" and they help generate energy. A pulmonologist mentioned to me that COPD patients have up to 30% less mitochondria in their lower legs. It can be reversed through exercise. Anyway, this could be one reason we COPDers have difficulty with stairs, John

[Madonna1 in reply to R2B_John]

Thanks for reply. No1 has ever mentioned to me emphysema can course lower leg problems. Are mention it to the consultant when I see her.I have such bad aching and they feel like I am draging a bag of cement on each leg.