CTPA scan

[ZM1980]

Hello all, I had a Spirometry test in December last year, due to ongoing breathing difficulties/shortness of breath on exertion - the results were indicative of small to mid airways disease, but only mild and not strictly Asthma (I have been given Fostair Nexthaler to trial). I didn't try this initially, as I was concerned about potential side effects, but recently symptoms have exacerbated, so I decided to give it a go (only started yesterday).

My consultant has arranged for me to have a CT pulmonary angiogram scan, as I mentioned symptoms seem to be worsening - I was a bit surprised by this, as from research, I know this type of scan is used to diagnose blood clots and any problems with the pulmonary arteries. Would the scan still be able to give a more definitive answer as to what the small airways disease is? I would have thought maybe a HRCT scan would be more appropriate. Any thoughts?

Thanks 🙂

[MELNEL]

I guess your consultant want to make sure that you have no blockage in your pulmonary, or lung, vessels. Because you mentioned that your symptoms are worsening. Did I understand this right that you been given the Fostair inhaler in December?

[Hidden]

The HRCT scan is used to diagnose many different problems. Not only in blood vessels but in lung tissue and airways. Your consultant is covering all of the options.Thousands of us use fostair and gain a lot of benefit from it. Perhaps if you had used it and seen benefit or no improvement this would have helped your consultant in their quest to find out what your problem is and help you.

[ZM1980 in reply to Hidden]

That's true, but I was concerned about the possibility of the Fostair making my chronic reflux worse, as in the past when I have used other inhalers, they have been ineffective and have exacerbated reflux symptoms, even with use of PPIs - can't seem to win either way!

[2greys]

Pulmonary and Cardiovascular problems are interlinked, as are a lot of their symptoms. These tests are used to closer define any causes through a process of elimination. I went through a lot of tests when first diagnosed, they are nothing to worry about and should not be taken as a specific diagnosis in themselves, the various Doctors and Consultants are doing their best and just being thorough.