Back from appointment with chest consultant.

So many of you were kind enough to wish me well at my appointment about my breathlessness today that I thought I would let you know how I got on. Thank goodness it is not something that is going to kill me in the next few years.

It is caused by a combination of many things; having R.A., having some spurs from having O.A., being on Mtx and Leflulamide, being overweight, having a very large hiatus hernia which is pushing up against my lungs so that they are not getting enough oxygen going through them, asthma and a slightly enlarged heart.

He said that the only thing that I can do to help is to try to lose weight and he said that he was one to talk as he is overweight himself and knows how hard it is to lose it, and in my case with being on steriods it will be even harder for me. I asked him if I should come off the R.A. medications and he said it was up to me, but if I do, then I will be putting myself at risk of flares and worsening arthritis and that will make me unable to move about at all and that in turn will inhibit the oxygen going around my body. He said that it is all very much a viscious circle.

I have to go back for some breathing and lung tests next month and they see him again.

[springcross]

That's really great news h-w and although you do have some issues, you must feel so relieved. The bad news is the dreaded diet. I think a lot of us are a little overweight now since the lockdowns etc. I hope your breathing and lung function tests go well and it's not that long to wait which is a good thing. All the best. 🤞 xx

[Hidden in reply to springcross]

Thank you springcross, yes the dieting will be hard. I don't smoke or drink and can't go out for a walk so having chocolate and going out for a meal or ordering one in was something I looked forward to and enjoyed. The doctor was very understanding and said I could chose what to do and if I felt I was going to lead a miserable life always trying to lose weight then I should ask myself if it is worth it or do I want to enjoy food now and just accept that it will no doubt shorten my life.

[springcross in reply to Hidden]

Well, when put like that it really does make you think doesn't it!! I hope you find a way to make it work and good luck with it. xx

[Pippy25 in reply to Hidden]

It's a catch 22 situation and can totally empathise with you there. Sometimes it feels a bit like spinning plates, as in you are trying to sort one situation out but that may affect another situation and vice versa that may have a knock on effect. Or like this virus which has thrown the cat amongst the pigeons so so speak whereby things such as hydro therapy in my case which was a beneficial form of exercise without putting a total strain on my health issues is now not currently available and despite the things I have tried my mobility has been less than great, combine this with the restrictions and lockdowns and the pounds have added on. Take care and let us know how you get on with you appointment next month xx

[snoopy29]

great news bet your relieved, i am in the same boat, had to stop mtx as had a cough for weeks and very breathless, got an urgent ct scan last thurday so like you i am waiting the results , this is the disease that keeps on giving 🤣

[oldtimer]

That sounds like a good result from the consultation. But it does leave you with the weight problem... I find that I have to measure everything or the intake creeps up.

[Hidden]

I know what you mean. So many times in the past, I have lost weight by dieting, but after a time it all comes back on again. xx