Lung volume

Hi @johnnyv46, welcome to Connect. Sometimes fear can paralyze us. I get that. But only by asking questions can we find answers to get help. That's why I'm glad you had the courage to ask your question here on Connect today.

I'm inviting fellow Connect members @katemn @elsinann @Paula_MAC2007 @pd02 @nadine66 into this discussion. They all are dealing with a lung condition of one type or another and have experienced lower lung capacity.

Johnny, what lung condition do you have? Tell us a bit more about yourself.

I understand your fear, Johnny. I'm sorry that your doctor didn't go into detail. Sometimes it's better to know exactly how we are...in my case, the imagination notches things up more than necessary. Is it harder for you to take a breath when you're flat on your back in bed? A thick pillow or two under your head will let you take a deeper breath. It takes a couple of nights to get used to, but you will. Are you saying your lung capacity is 15% of normal? Did your doctor give you a spirometer to exercise your lungs with, to increase their capacity? Good luck, Friend! Elsin Ann

Hello Johnny, I don't know about you .. but I have always felt that "knowledge is power". I am a pretty logical person .. but If I know what I am dealing with .. I can research .. figure out what is the best pathway for me to follow and then push ahead. I have 3 lung diseases .. my husband is Stage 4 cancer .. because of our journeys I have had to do a LOT of research .. decision making about the best way to go. It just plain helps me to "take charge" .. it takes away the fear .. and I have had fear PLENTY of times .. don't kid yourself .. we all have. I love what I was told one time .. "It is like being in a canoe between two islands. You can't see the island you left behind .. you can't see the island ahead .. it is scary as all get out .. but all you can do is paddle like h---!" But the great thing about life is .. we DO get to that other island .. IF we do paddle like crazy! Do what we know we need to do to get to that other island!

If I was sitting in your shoes .. I would sit myself down .. write down the questions you have .. ask the pros and cons of each options the doctors presents
and then decide what option is best for YOU! Remember .. nobody cares about your health .. your body as much as you do.

Johnny, I am glad you have found this Forum .. keep us posted .. we are here for you .. sending you positive energy and a BIG hug! Katherine

Hey @johnnyv46. It's great that you found yourself here and brave of you to reach out. As others have expressed, I think many here can relate to the fear of visiting the doctor. New information can be overwhelming, but asking questions is ultimately a step that can help us become more empowered and knowledgable about our health. By asking lots of questions, you can work together with your doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and devise a treatment plan that will be a fit for you and your preferences.

Sometimes just knowing what questions to ask is a place to start. Here are some examples of questions to ask about lung health. Maybe this is of help.

Here are some questions to ask your pulmonologist, respiratory therapist, or other member of your pulmonary care team about your lung condition. Print this page, check off the questions you would like answered, and take it with you to your appointment.

- Do you suspect my symptoms are related to an obstructive lung disease, such as asthma or COPD, or to a restrictive lung disease, such as pulmonary fibrosis or lung cancer?
- What is the name of the lung disease you suspect is responsible for causing my respiratory symptoms? Is this condition known by any other names?
- What types of diagnostic tests will be performed to confirm or rule out this diagnosis (e.g., pulmonary function tests, chest x-ray, CT scan)?
- How should I prepare for these diagnostic tests? How long will the tests take? Will the results of these tests be available immediately? If not, how long will it take to get the results? Should I call, or will someone contact me?
- Is my condition acute or chronic?
- What complications may develop as a result of my condition?
- What will be the course of treatment? Can my condition be controlled with medication, such as inhalers, cough medicines (e.g., expectorants), or antibiotics?
- What are the common side effects of these medications and what should I do if I experience severe side effects? If medication is ineffective, what other treatment options are available?
- Are there any complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies that may be used to treat my condition?
- How often should I be seen for follow-up appointments and pulmonary function testing?
- Where can I find more information about my lung disease? Can you recommend a local or online support group for patients with lung disease?

- See more at: http://www.healthcommunities.com/evaluating-lung-problems/questions-to-ask-doctor.shtml#sthash.SElGFz9T.dpuf

Thank you for your thoughtful response. I will be going for a battery of lung tests on May 31, 2016 and will better understand what 15% lung capacity means in the overall scheme of things as it relates to my empyema.
I'll will keep you posted and again thank you.
John

Thank you for your thoughtful response. I will be going for a battery of lung tests on May 31, 2016 and will better understand what 15% lung capacity means in the overall scheme of things, as it relates to my empyema.
I'll will keep you posted and again thank you.
John

Thank you for sharing your story. I will ponder what you said especially the "It is like being in a canoe between two islands".
I'll remember this.
Thank you and God bless.
John

Hello John, I am so glad this little story helped you .. I know that it helped me at various times in my journey! When times get tough I'll remind myself of that story .. and know that this too shall pass and I will see that island ahead .. and I will trust in my Higher Power that whatever is ahead I will be able to handle. That I am not given more than I have the strength and wisdom to deal with at any given time. Sending you a Big Hug! Katherine

@johnnyv46 I hope the testing day went alright yesterday. I'm sure you were exhausted today. It just leaves one worn out. Please let us know what you learned if you're comfortable with that.

Hello Friend,
I hope you update on your recent appointments. So many of us with lung damage feel isolated when those around us hear our words but do not translate what it actually feels like to not be able to breathe. You have lots of people here who understand the fear and stress. I have had very low lung capacity from past lung damage and anytime I have an infection. I sleep upright, which is ok, I'm used to it. I meditate, use only natural products, and do gentle yoga and gentle exercise in general, which really helps me. I am praying for you, you are never alone. A loving God and Angels are watching over you. With Love : )