I'm a 44yo smoker. Have had congestion in my lungs for about 4 years and x-rayed each year. Nothing had shown up until last week. Doc looked at xray last week and said "Nothing bad here", but when reviewed by radiologist, there was something on the upper left lobe. Doc said "Don't worry" and it "looks like scar tissue". I don't feel short of breathe, but do have a lot of mucus that seems to come from the area described. Still pretty easy to cough up. Sometimes use Albuterol inhaler, generally at night to help sleep, but no great problems with steps, moderate exercise, etc.
I've read a little on fibrosis and other issues, but am confused about COPD, ILD, Bronchitis, and cancer. From what I've read, it sounds like ILD or cancer. What are my options for either? If it's ILD, are there treatment options or do I just have to live with this (and how long)? From what I've seen, ILD sounds like the best I can hope for.
I've got a CT scan scheduled for Tuesday and follow-up with Doc on Friday. The wait is terrible. Any help/info greatly appreciated.