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Told I Have Asthma, But Signs Point to COPD?
Hi everyone,
I’m 25 and have struggled with breathing problems most of my life — chest tightness, mucus, acid reflux since childhood, fatigue, and shortness of breath even with light activity. I finally saw a pulmonologist and had PFTs done, but I never got a full explanation of my results. When I asked about COPD, my doctor basically laughed it off, saying I was “too young,” and told me it’s probably asthma or GERD.
I recently looked at my test results myself, and some of the numbers seem to show hyperinflation or air trapping. My breathing issues aren’t just “episodes” — they’re constant. I get winded climbing stairs, walking up small hills, or even standing still. I’ve never smoked, but I grew up in a house full of heavy smokers (both parents, multiple packs a day).
My report even said I should follow up with an X-ray, but my doctor didn’t mention it. Should I get a second opinion? Has anyone else been told asthma when it turned out to be something else?
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gumlay56, hi, I would say that a second opinion would be helpful at this point, I believe that we have instincts for a good reason, when in doubt check it out. I have had asthma for many years and also COPD, I remember when it started there was some time during testing that they weren’t sure yet but they have specific tests today that are very accurate to help with this, I hope that you get the answers you need to know to help you get the right treatment.
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6 ReactionsIve also never smoked but over the years have had bouts of bronchitis in the winter. Since Covid my SOB was one of the worst and most scary symptoms, sometimes id be so out of breath just sitting on the couch. My pulmonologist sent me for a pulmonary function test after my first covid infection (4/2020) and even though I was extremely out of breath with mu HR reaching over 140's during the seated testing the test didn't show any issues with my lungs. Then after covid 3/2023, even though my SOB didn't seem as bad as before my PFT showed Asthma. I tried so many different combination inhalers, nothing helped. Then when I went to The Mayo Clinic last year they recommended a steroid only inhaler, it has helped me so much. I still get out of breath climbing stairs or when I overexert myself but it doesn't seem as bad.
To answer your question, yes go get a second opinion, a fresh set of eyes are always better than nothing.
Good luck xx
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3 ReactionsHi @gumlay56 - that's a quandary when your doctor tells you one thing and your instincts are telling you another. Here's something the American Lung Association said about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) at this URL https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/copd/symptoms-diagnosis/early-warning-signs:
Anyone can develop COPD; but people aged 40 or older, current or former smokers have a higher risk of developing the disease.
Are you planning to pursue as second opinion, @gumlay56? How has your breathing been this week?
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3 ReactionsHi @frouke,
Thank you so much for sharing your experience and kind words. You’re absolutely right — our instincts do matter, and I think getting a second opinion is probably the best next step for me. It’s encouraging to hear that more accurate testing is available now for both asthma and COPD. I’ll definitely push for clearer answers so I can finally get the right treatment plan. Really appreciate your support
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2 ReactionsHi @mmoose72,
Thank you for sharing your story — it really helps to hear from someone who’s gone through something similar. It’s interesting how your test results changed over time and how the right inhaler finally made a difference. That gives me some hope. I’ve also had times where my shortness of breath didn’t seem to match what the test results showed. I agree — a second opinion sounds like the smart move. I’m glad you found something that works better for you.
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1 ReactionHi @lisalucier,
Thank you for the link and for checking in. I didn’t realize that COPD could sometimes appear in people who haven’t smoked, especially with long-term secondhand smoke exposure like I had growing up. My breathing has been up and down this week — still short of breath doing light things, which makes me think I should definitely get that second opinion. I appreciate you taking the time to share that resource
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