New here and scared
Hello everyone-
My name is Kathy. I have been experiencing random shortness of breath for a few years now. It comes and goes, it all started when I quit smoking 5 years ago. Sometimes months, even a year will go by with nothing. Then for a few weeks I'll experience shortness of breath. I'll do breathing exercises which helps.
Anyway - my doctor sent me for a PFT test yesterday and my results are in this morning and I'm not surprised that it says "mild airflow obstruction" which is caused by smoking (this is the short version of the results).
I know I did this to myself. I'm 65 years old, otherwise in excellent health - my weight is good, I have a good diet and I exercise regularly. Smoking was my only vice. Oh, how I regret it. But I know I can't turn back the clock.
What happens now, I suppose my dr will call me today and I'm so scared.
Hi Kathy, and welcome! I hear you and, you have certainly come to the right place! In our online community, we have an entire membership who knows what you are going through and understands how you feel.
It's true, one cannot turn back the clock but, you should feel good about quitting smoking five years ago - that is a genuine accomplishment! Let's attack this moving forward and not look back! What do you think?
The terminology 'mild airflow obstruction' is just that 'mild'. Although it's understandable how anxious you may feel now, perhaps you'd want to wait to hear the full explanation and treatment plan moving forward from your physician.
At that point you will know much more about what the actual diagnoses and prognoses are.
Please do check back and let us know how this all turns out. If there is anything we can do to assist you, please let me or any other moderator / team member know.
We are all pulling for you!
Leon (site moderator COPD.net)Thank you so much fir your reassurance- I will let you know.
Hi Kathy - I was hoping I might be of help for you - thanks for your feedback. Please know, we are here to help you in any way that we can within an online community.
We have a pretty well versed and knowledgeable group of people who belong to this community. There are varying levels of experience, expertise and a wealth of scientific and anecdotal information that you may derive great benefit from.
I will wish you 'good luck!' and look forward to hearing from you again.
Warmly
Leon (site moderator COPD.net)
Kathy, Jesus said for us not to worry, so I don't as I also know that our God has this...
Hi Kathy, I'm new also don't be scared. The people here have been so friendly and helpful. I don't think anyone will get use to hearing you have COPD. It's been 8 years and I can't except it. You have friends here and we understand.
