CT Scan Shows End Stage Bronchiectasis In One Lobe
I just turned 50 and have lead an active and healthy life other than being hospitalized twice when I was very young with pneumonia. In March I started having trouble with chest heaviness and just a general "not right" feeling in my chest. I recently had a CT scan and the findings were end-stage bronchiectasis in my right middle lobe. I will admit that I lead a busy life and have maybe not been so in tune in the last 5 years with subtle symptoms. My follow-up appointment with my pulmonologist is over a month away and I am terrified. Has anyone else been diagnosed with end-stage bronchiectasis? I know there is going to be no repairing this but will it mean a lobectomy?
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the MAC & Bronchiectasis Support Group.
It does not mean lobectomy. Keep moving:)
Thanks for the response. I have been trying to go about my usual routine knowing that I don't feel quite right and I will continue to do this until my appointment. I've been trying to jog 4 miles on the treadmill at least 5 times a week. I haven't noticed myself being breathless but do get a "not quite right" feeling almost like a disconnect from my brain to my body. I guess this is normal because I don't feel quite right even sitting still. I think I am still trying to process that there is something actually wrong with me.
@coco1970- It's very unhinging to learn that we aren't well. Has your Pulmonologist ordered any inhalers or oral medicines for you so that your breathing is easier?
I’m certainly no expert and you don’t say where you are being seen, but I would certainly get a second opinion. Also, the pulmonologist may interpret your CT scan differently than the radiologist who did the CT scan.
@coco1970 End stage means your lungs have been compromised sufficiently so that little can be done to repair the damage except to have a lung transplant. With that said, my husband was diagnosed with end stage sarcoidosis, and there was discussion about a lung transplant. We liked this pulmonologist very much but went to another lung specialist in another state. I agree with Beth - it never hurts to get a second opinion. It can only add information to help you make a more informed decision about your health. irene5
I just turned 50 and have lead an active and healthy life other than being hospitalized twice when I was very young with pneumonia. In March I started having trouble with chest heaviness and just a general "not right" feeling in my chest. I recently had a CT scan and the findings were end-stage bronchiectasis in my right middle lobe. I will admit that I lead a busy life and have maybe not been so in tune in the last 5 years with subtle symptoms. My follow-up appointment with my pulmonologist is over a month away and I am terrified. Has anyone else been diagnosed with end-stage bronchiectasis?
Hi @coco1970, I add my welcome to you. You'll notice that I merged the 2 discussions that you started into one discussion in the MAC & Bronchiectasis group (https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/mac-bronchiectasis/). I did this so you can connect with members like @windwalker @gaylesunflower1 @baz10 @judyhodgern @sueinmn @alleycatkate @mrf5629 @auntnanny as well as those who have already offered advice and support here.
You may also be interested in this discussion:
- Bronchiectasis: New Diagnosis https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/bronchiectasis-new-diagnosis/
Coco, I can imagine that you're very frightened. Did you know that you had bronchiectasis before this recent news that it is end-stage? Or is the first you've heard that you have bronchiectasis?
@irene5- Good morning. @coco1970 stated that the CT scan showed end-stage Bronchiectasis showed up in her middle right lobe. I think that she needs to wait for her next appointment and hopefully a second opinion.
@sueinmn- Is it possible to have end-stage Bronchiectasis in only one lobe?
Yes it is possible. Each lung is different. I have endstage lung disease in left lower lung.
My goodness...4 miles on the treadmill 5X a week is phenomenal!! I am no Dr. but strongly suggest you seek a second opinion, preferably with someone that specializes in bronchiectasis. Often bronchiectasis goes hand in hand with other "bugs" such as MAC so I think that someone that specializes in your disease would be beneficial. By the way...there are many on this site that would love to do one mile on a treadmill without being winded. Please do not take the word of one person for a diagnosis....especially when it seems to be so negative. My Dr says he believes I have had Bronchiectasis since childhood.... A good diagnosis is imperative along with knowledgeable maintenance. Are you near any Mayo Clinics or perhaps National Jewish Health in CO? I know lung disease diagnosis is frightening but try to relax till you get good professional advice. I discounted the advice from my local pulmonologist and headed to Mayo. It was there that I got good explanations, help with managing the diseases, and felt reassured with the Dr.'s recommendations. I am mild with both MAC and Bronchiectasis and believe I can remain that way. Many times you just need to adjust to the new you. At first, I was overwhelmed by a diagnosis, but feel fortunate to have the diagnosis so that now I can take good maintenance measures. Good luck and know that everyone on this site is here to help guide you.
Kate