How Do I Determine What Stage Of Emphysema I Have? | MyCOPDTeam

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How Do I Determine What Stage Of Emphysema I Have?
A MyCOPDTeam Member asked a question 💭
posted June 30, 2016
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A MyCOPDTeam Member

Hi Bill..It is a Very Relevant Question and an Important One...As your disease progresses so will treatment be changed or adjusted to suit...COPD does not only involve being Short of breath and unable to function as well as you once did and will gradually reach the point, that even minimum activity will become an enormous problem......You can add to that so many other connected issues that may arise during your journey such as Pulmonary Hypertension, Plueral Effusion and other Cardiac Issues....So it is very important to be Pro-Active and that means that ''No Question is a Silly Question'' where your life is concerned.

Here is the Gold Standard of COPD explained easily although the Stages differ to the More Accurate BODE Index......

GOLD I - Mild COPD

At this stage, there is mild limitation of air flow, but patients are not always aware that their lung function is abnormal.

GOLD II - Moderately severe COPD

At this stage, the limitation of airflow causes symptoms such as coughing, coughing up phlegm and shortness of breath during exertion. Patients usually seek medical treatment at this stage.

GOLD III - Severe COPD

At this stage, the limitation of airflow is even greater. Patients complain of worsening shortness of breath, fatigue, limitations to daily activities and repeated exacerbations that all affect quality of life.

GOLD IV - Very severe COPD

This stage is characterised by a very severe reduction of airflow, so severe that the limitation also affects heart and blood vessels. Daily administration of extra oxygen may be required. The complaints are so severe that temporary worsening can be life-threatening.

Take care and yes EXERCISE is the most important thing to keep you well enough and will prolong your life rather than sit around and feel sorry about your situation.....

posted July 1, 2016
A MyCOPDTeam Member

You have just answered a bunch of questioned I just asked my doctor. This is such a good site'

posted July 2, 2016
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Your doctor will tell you, usually you have to do a breathing test.

posted July 3, 2016
A MyCOPDTeam Member

I have resisted asking this question because it makes no difference to my day to day care and is not a good predictor of life expectancy.
Your doctor could tell you that based on tests but it will make no difference to your treatment.
hope this helps.

posted July 1, 2016

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