iam2nd
"Glad this forum exists, even if no one else reads this, because though i am blessed every day, sometimes i just need to pour a bit of my heart out. Today i am feeling weak, and tired, and a little fearful about the future. I can barely exert myself lately without being s.o.b and dizzy (maybe it's just the hot, humid weather). Takes all my strength to do simple things. Feeling grumpy and lacking patience. I've lost so much ground, physically, over the past year, that's really scaring me. I have very little help with household chores, and i'm getting more and more behind (would hire someone but not in the budget). Ok - i think that's probably enough whining for today. Thanks for letting me get that off my chest. Time for a quick nap! "
Hi again, iam2nd and please know, you are always welcome here. Members use our site for all sorts of personal reasons, one of them being to vent to other members who understand how you feel and know what you're going through. If we can assist you with any of your concerns, be sure to let us know. We're always here to help. You may also find it helpful to access our COPD Facebook page. The membership there is large and you'll also find many opportunities to share ideas and converse with one another. Warm regards, Leon (site moderator)
"I am confused - when i was first told i had asthma, i was in my 30's, but no one ever explained a thing about it, just threw an inhaler at me and sent me on my merry way. From early childhood i struggled with allergies that affected my breathing although never saw a Dr for it. I just adjusted my behavior and lifestyle to accommodate my breathing issues. Fast forward to my 40's when i had a complete respiratory and cardiac failure and my life changed big time. Thus began my saga of various control meds and ultimately under the care of Allergists and Pulmonologists. Not only diagnosed with asthma but around 10 yrs ago COPD/Emphysema. My confusion stems from the following: My pulmo team at KaiserPermanente originally diagnosed me as having both asthma and copd/emphysema, however, my pulmo here in Nevada (no Kaiser here) says that it has to be one or the other, but i can't have both. What do you say, community? I'd appreciate any thoughts. God bless you all."
Hi iam2nd and thanks for your post and the excellent question. There is no question that asthma CAN co-exist in the same patient as COPD. It's not an easy diagnosis to make as several of the symptoms are similar. It's hard to accept but not all doctors have the same training, experience and knowledge. You may want to seek out a more broad based specialist who can understand that you do have both conditions and can treat you accordingly. I'm hopeful others in the community will chime in as well. Wishing you the best, Leon (site moderator)
Thank you, Leon! I do appreciate that you say the two conditions can coexist - i am just about ready to lose my mind - have pulmo appt. in 6 days. Will discuss again at that time. Keep up the good work.
Hi again, iam2nd - it's my pleasure. Don't go crazy - just persevere and seek out a capable physician who can treat your correctly. We'll look forward to hearing back from you. Good luck! Leon (site moderator)