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Newly diagnosed very overwhelmed

Feeling very overwhelmed and scared only found out two days ago I’ve stopped smoking but left the hospital not really asking any questions was in a bit of a shock I think but I’ve got hospital next Wednesday to see what stage I’m at so I can ask questions I’m worse of a night very wheezy but now with the pump it is a bit better sorry I’m rambling just very overwhelmed

  1. welcome! No apologies, overwhelmed is a normal reaction to the COPD diagnosis. I remember when I received my diagnosis, at National Jewish. Each person had an appointment with a therapist.
    Thinking of that, always reminds me of the importance of a support system. It can be a Better Breather’s club, if there is one in your area. It can also be a therapist, a support system in person or even one here, on COPD.net. Often it’s nice to speak with like others who are going through similar things.
    Do write down your questions, it’s so easy to forget, especially when others begin to talk with you.
    Rambling is acceptable, I catch myself doing that as well!
    Janet (team)

    1. Thankyou

      1. Overwhelmed is an appropriate word to describe how the diagnosis feels. I was so stunned that when my husband in the waiting room asked how the checkup went, I just said Oh, I don't know, alright I guess.
        But I had heard the word emphysema, and understood what it meant. It was about 2 days before I finally told my husband. Once we decide to face it head on and deal with it with a good doctor, healthy diet, plenty of water and exercise, exercise, exercise, we start feeling more in control, and we begin to settle down. That's how it happened to me anyway, and that was 12 years ago.
        Wishing you all the best care and healthy life.

        1. I’m finding this to be true

      2. I'm in a similar situation with the recent diagnosis (A month ago) and feeling overwhelmed I got set up with a maintenance inhaler and it's been a real game changer. Unfortunately the med (Spiriva) I was on isn't on my carrier's approved list, so my MD switched me to Amigo Ellipta. I read a bit about it and I'm hopeful. I switched to a Mediterranean diet a few months ago and it definitely helps. I think it's important to be proactive and keep a positive outlook. Daily meditation helps me keep my inner balance and deal with the anxiety. I just try to make the most of the good days. Carpe diem and take care of yourself.

        1. Hi Bob! Welcome to the community. I'm glad you shared a little bit of your story with us. How are you doing with the new inhaler so far? And yes, while there is no official "COPD diet," trying to eat healthily and avoid foods that would create lots of mucus could make a real difference in how you feel each day. I'm glad you meditate, too. It's important to have a variety of different tools to draw on that enrich not just your physical health, but your mental and emotional state as well. It sounds like you are doing a lot to set yourself up for success. Of course, being here and learning as much as you can helps a lot, too! Glad to have you with us. -Melissa, team member

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