COPD & Emphysema Support Group

COPD is a progressive disease characterized by airflow obstruction or limitation. Emphysema is characterized by loss of elasticity of the lung tissue, destruction of structures supporting the alveoli and of capillaries feeding the alveoli. Both have symptoms that include shortness of breath, among other respiratory troubles. If you are a COPD or Emphysema sufferer, join...

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jami46
jami46
Well I have been thur two month of testing and three doctors.I have had pulmonary function test ,3 ABGs,6 minute walk ,overnite pulse ox study,Right heart Cath,4 days in the hospital.I thought I was healthy just over weight.The pulmonary man said I have moderate obstruction.I never smoked or drank in my 46 years and I am thinking of starting. At least I would have a reason.The cardiologist says I have CHF and put me on 60 mg of lasix a day plus other meds.Now Wednesday nite I have a sleep lab to go to and I am already on CPAP.When does all this stop I really do not think there is anymore test.
Sue825
Sue825
Try to be patient. Your doctor is being commendably thorough. There are so many here who have doctors that don't do all the tests, and they have to beg for them.

Make sure you ask for copies of all your results, so that you can begin to understand your unique situation. Also, since you say you've never smoked, is there a possibility that you have the genetic type of COPD? You might ask for one more blood test - Alpha 1 Anti-trypsin blood test - if it hasn't been done already. That could tell the doctors a lot about how to treat your disease.

Hugs, Sue
deleted_user
deleted_user
If you're over weight you have a reason for your problems.
tasha946
tasha946
Hang in there Jami--things will settle down. It does sound like you are going through a lot right now. Check on what Sue said and do believe that you can be ok and live a good life even with some challenges as you mentioned.
Stay strong!
Prayers and hugs,
Tasha
deleted_user
deleted_user
I hate to keep on this, but it's most likely they've already tested you for Alpha1 Anti-trypsin. It's just a blood test & pretty routine if you've never smoked or anything. Were you around other people who smoked or work around chemicals? If not, how over your BMI are you. That can cause all the problems you have mentioned.