COPD-NEW TO ME!

[Vindicatrix]

Hi all, I was diagnosed with CLL 5 years ago, and am now ready for treatment. Soon after I was told this I was diagnosed with 'Bells Palsy'

After ten days of Steroid treatment, which did not help, I was sent for an MRI scan, which showed a small tumour in my neck, which I was told was on the move from my Mandible to my Skull base.

I as told that it was not curative, but palliative, and that an operation was out of the question due to my age and medical history.

I have had two biopsies in an attempt to identify and reach the tumour, which were unsuccessful. I was then transferred from my local l hospital to a bigger one, which deals these matter. and have been allocated a MDT (Multi Disciplinary Team).

I also obtained a 2nd opinion regarding my 'Bells Palsy' and Tumour. I was told by my new ENT man, who has treated me before, and knows my history. He thinks that I do in fact have 'Bells Palsy', and this could mean that the Palsy was not caused by the tumour.

He has arranged another Biopsy by a Radiologist, experienced in challenging neck tumours. Once, or if we get a result, will be able to determine if the tumour is cancerous, and if so, if aggressive. He also told me that an operation was possible but the risks may outweigh a good outcome.

My CLL treatment has been put on hold until the tumour issue has been resolved.,

I have had a few virus's and infections, an X Ray, and a full body cat scan shows that I also have a small Bronchiectasis, which I am told is a form of COPD. I was seen by a consultant who went over in detail, on the Scan. He seems to think that it is manageable, and has advised me to send in sputam samples if I have more than three days of green or yellow phlegm.

I have presently a viral infection, and was given a course of Antibiotic, as my GP though it may have been a Bacterial Infection. The results of the 'Sputam' tests does not show this, but she has given me a box of Antibiotic, as a safety net, if needed in the future.

Having CLL is a concern for me, as we are told to avoid Chest Infections particularly. I am also informed that Viru's of this kind could be responsible' for Bells Palsy' also.

I would be grateful to hear from anyone who has had similar experiences of this, or has any views on the subject.as it is new to me as I was only informed recently.

All the best to you all.

, t

[Patk1]

Pls b aware with bronchiectasis u need min of 14 days antibiotics. I still wear masks and carry handgel as need to reduce infection risks - ea once causes further damage.youve a lot going on.wishing u all the best x

[Vindicatrix in reply to Patk1]

Thanks for the information, Pat, it was very helpful. I was surprised about the two weeks, at least, course of antibiotics.

My Lung Consultant advised the 6 day course of Antibiotics, but only if I had two or three days of green or yellow 'Sputam'.

He also told me to have them regularly tested, which I did, and no infection was found.

My GP has told me to discontinue antibiotics for the present, but prescribed me a course, to have at hand should I need them.

I regularly exercise and do slow deep breathing, and was told to continue , as this can be beneficial in clearing the Phlegm.

I am obviously new to this hub, as I usually use the CLL one, but now I know about this new 'Lung' related development, I will be a regular 'Reader and Poster'.

Any advice or 'Posts' from those who have similar symptoms will be well received.

Thanks all. Ron

[watergazer]

Sorry I don’t have experience of this but wish you well. Xx

[Vindicatrix in reply to watergazer]

Thanks Watergazer.

[Alberta56]

Best wishes. I hope the tumour proves benign. Patk is right that normally 14 days antibiotics are considered essential for bronchiectasis infections, since the bugs are very good at lurking in out of the way corners and will multiply again if not totally knocked out.

[Vindicatrix in reply to Alberta56]

Thanks Alberta that was most interesting, I will speak again to my GP, as she has been treating me for all kinds of infections and virus's over the last year.

She knows my history, as does my consultant, so I can only go on their advice and directions.

But as I say, and in view of your advice, I will certainly take it up with my GP on Monday.

Regards Ron

[jackdup]

good luck with your future tests and hope you have a good outcome on the tumor.