rene1949
"Today I'm a nit confused. I have COPD/Emphysema End Stage, on Oxy. 24/7/365. In 2011, I was given 3 to 5 years to live. To which I replied Bullcrap, watch me. Here I am in 2019. Still going strong. Now to that confusion. I read people's postings of " flare-ups ". Someone please get very specific here. Define flare-ups. Some folks say they are hospitalized with each flare-up. What is the presise difference between a hospitalization and the everyday harsh shortness of breath episodes that require either 2 puffs on the inhaler or a nebulizing treatment? Thank you for the answer. Breath easy, folks. Seeya !"
Rene1949, thank you for your question. Flare-ups will vary from person to person, which means sometimes they will require hospitalizations and sometimes will not. This article gives some good information about flare-ups, but again, it is important to remember each body is unique and responds to COPD and flare-ups in its own way. https://copd.net/living/flare-ups/ When a consistent worsening of symptoms is observed/suspected, it is important to reach out to your doctor to keep it from becoming worse.
I'm so glad you did not put any stock in being given an "expiration date" when diagnosed with COPD! Many people, you included, live many decades with "end stage" COPD enjoying life - just at a slower pace! I hope this helps to answer your question. Please follow up if we can help clarify further! Wishing you a gentle day. ~Allyson (COPD.net team)Hi Rene1949 and thanks for your post. The best aspect of COPD to keep in mind, is that it's affect on people varies from person to person. A mild flare-up for one person, may not be tolerable for another. You know yourself best - flare-ups tend to be worsening of symptoms. The article that Allyson provided to you will explain this more thoroughly. Please feel free to check back with us and let us know how you're doing. We're glad to have you as part of our online community. Wishing you well, Leon (site moderator)