COPD - low level energy, shortness of breath, etc.

[MaryLou817]

I have severe COPD.  I worked full time until April 28th and got sick with bronchitis again.  I have not been able to bounce back as I usually do.  I did quit smoking but have had a cigarette here and there.  My sats are generally 90-93.  I went back to work at a 5 hours a day schedule and am having a severly hard time. The shortness of breath moving around so much, sweating, tired, pressure in my chest (it is not my heart which was just checked) and I don't know what else to do.  My office wants me to go back on disability for 2 to 3 months to get well.  I love my job and they are really working with me but feel that I am just too ill to be there.  I was severly ill with pneumonia at the end of 2006, in both lungs and almost died but I don't have pnemonia this time but I feel almost as bad.  I am ready to give up.

My doctor doesn't think this is needed.  Where can I get help or is there any help at all.

[lynnkay]

I do understand how you are feeling in many aspects. I too have COPD. This past winter I was sick so much. Pneumonia, bronchitis twice, pleurisy, etc. Now, this summer the hot humid weather is greatly bothering my breathing. I do understand the fatigue as well. I think that gets to me the most. I use to be full of energy. Now, doing housework has even become very difficult. I have to take so many breaks. Seems all I am doing anymore is sleeping. And that is not the usual me. I had to give up my line of work. It was very fast paced, etc. I could no longer keep up. I myself have applied for disability. I didn't want to have to do it, but little choices left. Having COPD is a very hard thing to deal with. I often wonder what lies ahead for me. I once was always such a healthy person. Maybe you need to find another doctor. One that will listen to you. But, please do not give up. I so hate having this disease and the problems it causes. But, you and me got to hang in there. Do your ankles ever swell due to the COPD? Mine have started to swell, especially the left ankle. I never had trouble with swelling in my life. What I have researched on ankles swelling is not good. Especially the left ankle. My doctor use to always check first thing for swelling in my ankles. So, God only knows what else this disease is causing. Indications that the lung disease could be effecting my heart. I am almost afraid to find out. But, if you would like to talk further, then I am here for you. Only those with lung disease can understand the impact it has on our lives. I wish you the best and don't you give up.

[mysticpizza65]

Marylou, I,m a retired nurse and having my problems also, but I can tell you what is causing the swelling. When your lung function is compromised the flow of air and oxygen exchange is changed, as is the pumping of blood through your heart and lungs. Because of this bodily fluids are not being distributed throughout your body as usual, hence the swelling in your legs. It can also cause Congestive Heart Failure. Thats when the fluid builds up in and around your heart.  Keep you lower extremities elevated and has your doctor ordered any water pills?