I have an appointment with a Pulmonologist soon.

[sawbuckjohn]

Hello Everyone,

  I have an appointment with a Pulmonologist soon. My hope is that I can find out exactly what type of COPD I have and optimize my treatment. I don't want him to miss anything. Wait, I'm sure he will be thorough, but I'm so used to my VA Dr. not addressing anything unless I bring it up, that it has kinda forced me into self diagnosis. I want to ask the right questions. I have been keeping a log on my meds, excercise, diet, blood O2, etc. since I quit smoking(coming up on a month), hoping I could spot some pattern. I think I am still suffering from an acute Bronchitus bout that started last Late Nov. I did a battery of anti-biotics and prednazone, but never really got too much better. This was the second year that I got bronchitus, even though I was diagnosed with COPD in 2003(i think) I believe My particular COPD is of the Chronic Bronchitus variety.  

   Anyway, any suggestions and/or experiences with Pulmonologists would be well received. Thanks, John

[Thomas3.20.2010]

John, my first pulmonologist visit lasted more than half an hour. The first half was for the specialist to ask me a ton of questions. So I would definitely recommend that you bring your lists. A good Doctor will be grateful and bother to read your papers. 

The second half was a combination of my questions and his explanations of what exactly I have, my treatment plan, and what I can do to manage my health. 

Here are some websites that might help you sort out your questions. Expect a good pulmonologist to answer all of them to your satisfaction. Also, you must come out feeling like the Doctor considers you as part of your Health Care Team!

[Thomas3.20.2010]

Oops! I forgot:

http://www.healthcommunities.com/copd/patient-information/questions-to-ask-doctor.shtml

http://copd.about.com/od/copdbasics/tp/Top-10-Questions-For-Your-Doctor-About-Copd.htm

http://www.healthline.com/health/copd/questions-doctor#2

http://copddigest.org/read/181/Make+the+Most+of+Each+Doctor's+Appointment+Prepare+Speak+up+and+Ask+Q...

[candylance]

John, all will go well. I'm sure they'll give you a spirometry test where you blow and the computer lets you know how well you're breathing. If they have doubts about your O2, they'll walk you with a computer and an attachment on your finger to see if your oxygen level drops significantly. Then, they'll know if you need to be on oxygen at home. I hope all goes well. Chin up!! That was my experience! Finally, the doctor talks to you about the tests that the nurse submitted to him.

Candy       d144

[candylance]

Oh, I was on oxygen 24/7 AND smoking. Now i'm on oxygen only at night. I have improved so much since I quit and haven't had bronchitis this winter. I have had asthma when I go out in frigid temps.

[Michwoman]

Hi John 🙂  You're doing the best thing for yourself. I would absolutely recommend you read what Thomas has sent you. He has been travelling this road for a while.

We're behind you and will be here for you!

[GreenThumb3]

Good luck I'm sure the Dr will be glad you quit smoking at least won't chew your butt for still smoking hope he gets you all squared away  

[JonesCarpeDiem]

wishing you the best outcome

[sawbuckjohn]

Thanks everyone for your comments/advice. Thomas, I'll read these, and I've already started a list of questions. I read part of the one article about what to ask, and I'll develop my lists/questions more yet before I go. I just hate it when I leave the Dr,s office and I realize I forgot to ask something. I suspect we've all done it. I appreciate everyones input. Thanks Guys.

   BTW, I was unable to use the "Subscribe to Comments" function on this page. Anyone know why? I don't want to miss Blog Posts from other members of the group, and I don't check this page everytime. Thanks, John

[johio]

John

A CT Lung scan is far more accurate than an xray in diagnosing lung cancer in it's early stages....It is now avaiable through the VA.