Lung capacity

My lungs were tested and results are at 41% how serious is that ? Also end state emphysema

[National Jewish Health]

Without knowing which of the pulmonary functions measured was 41% it is impossible for me to tell how serious it is.  In general, if the FEV1 measurement is 41% of predicted that would be considered evidence of severe emphysema.  That does not mean that the end is near.  Many individuals with this degree of pulmonary function loss can live for years with it.  The quality of life in those years can be greatly enhanced if you don’t give in to shortness of breath and continue to exercise regularly.  And, if still smoking, that you stop immediately.

With emphysema of this severity, you should be using the following inhaled medicines:  1) an inhaled corticosteroid; and 2) an inhaled long-acting beta-agonist, for example Serevent® Inhalation Aerosol (salmeterol xinafoate) and/or a Spiriva® HandiHaler® (tiotropium bromide inhalation powder).

Good luck.