Update on "Blood in Phlegm"

[KimC]

Hi,

I am in shock but feeling OK. My PCP diagnosed me w/ COPD today. I don't know anything about the disease/condition whatever it is.

I'm not nor have never been a smoker, but had chronic bronchitis as a child and young adult. I lived in Mexico City, New York and traveled to Beijing, Hong Kong and Sao Paulo frequently, all very polluted cities. Maybe those factors got me to where I am today.

Anyway, I'm wondering if I should see a specialist and what meds are the best at preventing progression. I'm also wondering if it's not a couple of bad valves that are causing the SOB.

Any thoughts, my friends? My PCP prescribed Combivent.

Thanks,

 

[medtronic of borg]

sob

sob

copd stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. it is made up of asthma,bronchitis,and empasema. it is irreverible. in short you smoked to much.

Med

 

[Nancy]

Hi Kim-

You DID say that you never were a smoker.

What sort of COPD do you have? Did your doctor elaborate? I have asthma, and that is considered COPD. My little grandson has asthma, he's 10, just got the diagnosis.

Maybe it would give you peace of mind to go to a pulmonary specialist, if the combivent doesn't work and get a thorough workup.

My husband also has pulmonary problems along with his cardiac problems. He also has congestive heart failure which can cause shortness of breath. He never had a cigarette in his life.

There are all sorts of medications that can help make your life easier, and yes, valve disease can mimic pulmonary problems, causing shortness of breath and can also happen right along with them. Many things are possible. Most have all kinds of help.

Best wishes!

 

[KimC]

Thank you. He diagnosed me with chronic bronchitis based on my symptoms and examination and the fact that I've never smoked. I'm not sure what to think. I thought it was allergies or possibly something related to the valves. I'll try the inhaler and go from there.

 

[Nancy]

Forgot to add something-- that congestive heart failure can be misdiagnosed as bronchitis. If you have any doubts about the bronchitis issue after a reasonable amount of time, or if you notice any other things like ankle swelling, stomach area swelling, even more trouble breathing, unwarranted sudden weight gain, ask your doctor about a BNP blood test which can diagnose congestive heart failure.

It is very easy to have this kind of confusion with congested lungs.