Emphysema, chronic bronchitis and bronchiectasis are all included under the COPD umbrella term. Most of us have both emphysema and chronic bronchitis and some of us also have bronchiectasis. Emphysema is a disease located down in the lungs, and affects the alveoli and our ability to exchange Co2 (bad) for O2 (good). Chronic bronchitis and bronchiectasis are both diseases of the bronchial tubes that lead down into the lungs, where the walls of the bronchial tubes thicken and make the airways much smaller than normal. Alpha-1 is a genetic condition which leads to emphysema and liver disease. The treatment for that includes a weekly protein infusion as well as the usual inhalers. The typical test of Alpha-1 is a simple blood stick. If you haven't been tested, you should be.

At your next appointment, talk with your doc about pulmonary rehab and getting tested for Alpha-1. If you don't get a good response about either, find a good pulmonologist.

Hi Christine Well its been just over a year since I quit smoking.How do I feel well I still keep getting cravings especially after a meal and I still miss having a cig when I am stressed or socialising.On the plus side I havent had a bad chest like I used to for over 7 months now and my terrible cough has gone. I still get very sOB and I cant do all the things I used to enjoy doing like dancing and walking but hey I am still here this time last year I thought I was going but stopped smoking through being so ill and I am eternally grateful for the extra time I have had with my loved ones and hopefully will continue to feel better. I will never put a cigarrette in my mouth again . I thought it wouldnt get me but it did and now I feel so thankful I have stopped I didnt stay on the patches and tablets I decided to go cold turkey last March and have managed without anything Its been hard this year but hopefully the day will come when I never even think about smoking xx

Alpha-1 is a genetic condition that requires weekly protein infusions to treat. It causes liver as well as lung damage.

For a good explanation of the other diseases, go to www.animated-copdpatient.com

Jean

Emphysema, chronic bronchitis are the two main diseases in COPD...Alpha1 is an inherited disorder that may cause lung disease and liver disease.

I gave up smoking 25 years ago the specialist said I should give up so I said right thats it and have not smoked since ,I believe unless you are in the right frame of mind you can not do it.it is a waste of time unless you really want to.I didnt take anything to help and my husband and son were still smoking .I never think about having a ciggie now xx