Very confused about my situation
I have been diagnosed with stage 3 copd, every time my blood oxygen level is taken the doctor says it’s fine. Then why am I gasping for air every time I do something as easy a taking a shower or walking a short distance. I am not able to get supplemental oxygen. What am I supposed to do now? Please help.
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Is your doctor a pulmonologist or just a GP? If your doctor is just a GP, then you need to see a pulmonologist. Most people will show within normal range for blood oxygen while sitting at the doctor's office. Have you told your doctor about your breathlessness while doing any normal functions? Like taking a shower, going for a walk, doing household chores, shopping, etc. If you haven't, then you should. If you have and your doctor doesn't listen, then it is time for a new doctor. Get a pulmonologist if you don't already have one. The only other piece of advice I can give you is to not give up and keep fighting. For some reason, these days, you have to fight for every little thing. So, start fighting back and make yourself heard. If your current doctor still won't listen, find another one. Keep your chin up and keep on keeping on. Please let the forum know how things work out. Take care and God Bless.Dminor9 is right! Find a pulmonologist. Try to get referrals from people you know. Then be polite, but firm in explaining your symptoms and experiences. Also, EDUCATE yourself about your illness. A great free resource is PULMONARYWELLNESS.ORG. Read the free short book that’s online and watch one of his webinars, especially the one concerning EXERCISE. Exercise is the foundation of improving your health and quality of life!
Ten minutes in Dr. Doolittle’s office never cured anyone. This task is mostly up to you. Consider yourself to be an athlete in training. You can and you will improve your condition if you work at it. Keep us posted and ask questions!
