CT report findings

[Mom2RPJI]

I went to the Drs a few weeks back for some neck/jaw problems (Dr was thinking my tmj or fibromyalgia), she wanted to rule other factors out first so she sent me for a CTscan of my neck/jaw.

My results of my neck were fine, but since the Ct scan could see the tops of my lungs it says in its findings:

There is some apical bulla on both apices.

Then under Impressions it says :

Small Apical Bulla

The nurse told me over the phone that I have emphasyma and to stop smoking.  Which I did immediately and I am now on day 8 free of cigs.

She said I didn't need a lung specialist until I show symptoms.  I gave birth in 2008 Nov....and had no problems breathing during pregnancy or natural child birth.

Ive read that I could have Bulla's and not have emphasyma............whats the best thing for me to do to find out whats really going on with me?

Thanks in advance.
Lisa

[Victoireh]

You know, even if you do have emphysema, you're doing the right thing by quitting smoking. This will allow your lungs to heal and for the cilia (little hairs) to become mobile again, so they can sweep away the junk in your lungs. Cigarette smoke temporarily immobilizes them. Secondly, the progression of the lung disease is slowed down by not smoking, so you can look forward to more healthier years, then if you were smoking.

[Mom2RPJI]

The nurse didn't diagnose me, she is just the one that told me.  It is handwritten on my ct scan that I have copd.

[Victoireh]

I would get a repeat CT scan of your entire lungs and do lung function tests. You can't diagnose based on a CT scans that just sees the tips of your lungs. A specialist or GP really should do the diagnosing, not a nurse. If you don't have any symptoms or breathing difficulties, it be nothing or in the early stages of something. But quitting smoking is a really good idea. Healthier for you, more money in your pocket and better for your kids. You're also giving them a good example to follow.