I am sorry that your test results rated you with Severe COPD. Numbers on the Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) can vary; depending on whether you are not feeling well at the time; or for other reasons. My numbers (lung function) vary. I am rated with Very Severe Emphysema.
I am glad you were referred to a Pulmonologist. My Pulmonary Specialist is quite experienced and highly trained; and I am thankful to have him; especially when he explains things to me. I wish you the best. Take good care.

Right there with you. I've been diagnosied with "advanced" emphysema and am seeing a pulmonologist. You know they are the ones who specialize in this condition and know the best treatments. I'm sure you will be in good hands. Try not to let it get to you too much.

NO HON, i haven't heard from the Pulmonologist. I have a note to call her tomorrow to see if she has my results. I'm sorry your stats show that, but like everyone said, your Pulm will help you and get you the best treatment, and if you follow their orders, you can live with this and do well! I'm right there beside you, supporting you 100% !!!!

Hugs,

Boo

Just diagnosed with COPD 4 years ago, this year had another spiro test n was classified as Severe....My Fev.1 was 23%

Im not on oxygen, can walk around well but slowly but any semi strenuous tasks I get SOB. Besides lingering pains around ribcage n usual aches n pains its pretty manageable....

One thing to note - when you have a spirometry test or Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) done, ask for a copy of the results from the technician or nurse administering the test. I've yet to be told no. The information comes in a normally decipherable form with all the numbers we discuss. This is not only good for personal use, it saves time in getting your data to a new pulmonolgist if you decide to change docs...

Hugs,
Dennis

i agree with dennis.
for years i have always gotten a copy of any important tests (mri's, HRct, PFT) for a few reasons;
1. when the dr goes over them so fast i never remember what is said by the time i get home (my son also bought me a digital tape recorder so when i go to dr i can record what is said so i can listen to it later at home)>
2. i can go over the tests & look up terms i don't understand on the internet.
3. when i go to new dr's or specialists i can take the tests with me so they can have a copy.
4. when i changed dr's i was able to furnish my new dr with all of my information.
i also found that even when they do a blood test that the results state right on the paper if something is high or low and it's easy to read.
maybe i'm weird, but i have such a hard time remembering & understanding things that when i go to the dr i come out forgetting everything said so getting copies of my health records helps me understand them better.

ps. sorry to hear that you are "severe"... so glad you are going to see a Pulmonologist that will get you on the right track of treatment.

their just numbers Terry. hopefully your pulmonary doctor will do some other tests that will help confirm the spirometer results. like maybe a pulmonary function test,x-rays and ct scan.