Newly Diagnosed
Hi, I'm new here. Just recently diagnosed. I'm 58 and a smoker. My oxygen level is still at 100%. For now, I must quit smoking. I also have a lot of pain in my left rib, can't lay flat w/out pain. I hope to learn a lot about COPD here. So happy to have found this site. My Dr. is very nice but I'm very afraid and have a lot of anxiety and panic attacks. Thanks for listening.
Hi Moody01 and welcome - you've come to the right place.
Since COPD is fairly new to you, I thought you might find it helpful to read over this material on the basics: https://copd.net/basics
As for the rib pain your experiencing, many of our community members have similar symptoms. In this article, they talk about their specifics: https://copd.net/living/community-feedback-rib-cramping
And, since you mentioned your concerns with anxiety, I thought you might find it helpful to read this article on that very subject:
https://copd.net/basics/conditions/mental-healthPlease know that you are always welcome here, as often and for as long as you like.
All the best,
Leon (site moderator)Hi, My name is Debbie and I was told 6 months ago I have
Copd and chronic bronchitis. With sinus. I'm learning as I go along.
My family thinks it's just a cold they won't lesson to me. Husband
doesn't want to hear about it. So no support feel very alone☹️
Hi debiesabik and welcome! I am glad you found this community. I am so sorry your family doesn't seem to understand the seriousness of your diagnosis. It can be very hard when those closest to you don't support you as you navigate life with a chronic condition like COPD. If possible, it's best if they can learn a little more about your condition. You can see if they would be open to reading articles from this website or another reputable site about COPD. Your medical doctor can also be a good source of support. There are also a variety of online communities that you can join for additional support. Please know you are not alone! Many of our members have had to create their own support systems when faced with disinterested family and friends. We are here for you! Please feel free to come here anytime to share! You can also check out our Facebook page, if you are on Facebook -- https://www.facebook.com/COPDDotNet/. Thank you for sharing. Wishing you a good night, Erin, (COPD.net Team Member)
Hello everyone. I am almost 77, (this month). I have been a lifelong smoker I was diagnosed with COPD few months ago. Last year about this time I was able to climb up the mountains. Today I can not. My wife, also a smoker, was also diagnosed with COPD 4 years ago, but cancer took her before the COPD could. As any mortal, I would like to defer my departure from this rock as late as possible. I don't think my regular doctor is as up to par with this disease. Would it be beneficial to find a capable lung doctor? Also, I have found that if I can bring up mucus from my lungs by coughing I do feel better. But sometimes the mucus gets thicker and is not so easy to bring it up. Is there any remedy or suggestions out there that would make it a little easier to loosen and cough the mucus up?
I am glad I have found this site thru the Facebook and am hoping to find out new ways to cope with disease. I can relate to the comment of the moody01. Anxiety and worry are definitely a product of being diagnosed with this.
