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DiscussionHow long have you lived with COPD?
COPD: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease | Last Active: Oct 31 1:07pm | Replies (50)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "I've had COPD for 23 years, am still not on oxygen, tire very easily but other..."
Wow, ray420, you sound like you are doing great! God Bless You.
I was diagnosed with Copd about 25 years ago. It never presented any big problems other than I couldnt go hiking or biking for long periods-but i was never very athletic so i was fine with that. However it has really progressed only the last 2 years or so. Im now 83 1/2. That may seem old but i was always pretty active- traveling a lot, running a small business, participating in many activities & organizations. I sometimes (often) feel sorry for myself & can relate to the ‘pity party’ syndrome. I am now on oxygen. Started first only at night, now more often. I think that’s what gets to me. Being tethered to a machine a lot of the time. Definitely limits my social life. I live alone so my social life was always pretty important to me. I use a portable sometimes but it’s cumbersome and ugly. And i feel very conspicuous with it.
And when i am rational i know im blessed that its not worse. I really have no pain. Just shortness of breath.
In answer to puddy—yes you can live AT LEAST another 20 years. And live well- traveling , enjoying your family,
In all truthfulness i have had a very full & enjoyable life despite the copd. With exercise & meds & love of family & friends, you will enjoy a good quality of life for many years. And with all the medical advances, who knows- maybe theyll find a way to slow the progression or alleviate some symptoms. Probably not in my lifetime but definitely in yours!!