CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISORDER COMMUNITY
Alpha-1 Lungs

Alpha-1 Lungs

I have Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency related COPD. My FEV1 is 33% of predicted at this time, and has been in this range for the last couple of years. My oxygen range is from 93-97, and sometimes I do require oxygen therapy.
My concern is regarding my diffusion capacity. My DLCO is now at 38%, although in 2007 it was at 51%.. I don't understand why the change. My doctor told me it has no effect on when I will be eligible for a lung transplant, but I still don't understand how the change in this number affects me.
Can you explain the diffusion capacity to me? Can I improve this number with weight loss?  
Related Discussions
Post a Comment
To
Comment
Post A Comment
Go
Blank
Weight Tracker
Reach your weight goal faster
Start Tracking Now
MedHelp Health Answers
Submit
Top Respiratory Disorders Answerers
757137_tn?1316284120
Blank
allmymarbles
NJ
606340_tn?1337718809
Blank
aheart
Sacramento, CA
RSS Expert Activity
1741471_tn?1336957856
Blank
LIVE WEBINAR TOMORROW!-SUPER BODY, ... Blank
May 22 by Michael Gonzalez-WallaceBlank
2126606_tn?1335910182
Blank
Fibromyalgia Awareness
May 11 by Clare Waismann Kavin, RASBlank
2126606_tn?1335910182
Blank
Opioid-induced hyperalgesia reduces...
May 03 by Clare Waismann Kavin, RASBlank