Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Stages of Emphysema

My 53yr old mom has just recently been diagnosed with Emphysema. In the last 2 weeks, she has gone to the hospital 3times because of shortness of breath.  She was afraid. Because bronchitis set in badly this time, it just seemed to have shown itself, finally with her ending up in the ER.

She has been taking Pretazon, and a mild relaxer because she does seem to get worked up very easily and ventolin (if needed).  This just makes it harder for herself to recoop.  Her ability to do the normal things has been dificult for her and she doesn't want to be around anyone.  I try to consol her ALWAYS, she's my MOM.  Now an nonsmoker after the diagnosis, it was like a double wammy to her system.  Recoop from the bronchitis and now dealing with being short winded very frequently.

Though she was only told this 2weeks ago, it seems like it has hit her system real hard.  Where, if you can answer - does it sound like she is at in the struggle?

Many Thanks In Advance for you reply(s)!!
Sandy
10 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
Ha. Ha. No, you're right. A festering tool would not be a good thing. But like I said. I've been clean from drugs since mid-september. (And clean in other aspects all my life.) No worries!
It's good to talk with you. You kind of remind me of pixi.

Speaking of pixi, I'll try to email you sometime.

Stakcool!
Festertool
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Ok...that's better than what I was thinking.  Fester brings visions of infected, pus-filled wounds, and tool...well, I guess my mind is in the gutter.  Believe me, a festering tool wouldn't be a good thing.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Well, it's not that complicated. When I would stay up for several days on the meth (methamphetamine not methadone) I would get real pale and get these real dark circles under my eyes. I somewhat resembeled Uncle Fester from the Adams Family. That explains that. Ever heard the band Tool?

Staycool!
Festertool
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I have to ask about the name you chose for yourself...what does it mean?
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hi Sandy.

I know what it's like losing your mom. It's so hard to let go and say goodbye. My mom died not too long ago and I miss her very much. I didn't get to spend alot of time with her; not as much as I would have liked to. I wasted alot of time when instead I shold have been with her. Thankfully, My dad is still alive and I have this forum. I cried so much the pain was unbearable. Far more painful than any addiction I have ever faced. My day's still in pretty good health, thank God, and does some wood work occasionaly. Not as much as he used to, but can still hold his own. I feel terrible for you and your mom. I'll keep you both in my prayers. I just recomend you spend time with your parents while you still have time. And take it easy, will you?

Staycool!
Festertool
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I'm very sorry about your mom.  I wish I knew more about the disease.

There are other forums here that might be able to answer your questions and give your more information.  I looked, and instead of clicking on addiction, there is a respiratory forum as well as forums for many other things.

Of course you are welcome here, but I thought you might find more answers about your mom's illness there.

I will keep you both in my prayers...
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I'm sorry for breaking your thread, but i have one quick question. A cople of weeks ago my pain doc switched my pain meds from methadone to ms-cotin, ever since the switch i have had incredible ithchin i tried using benadryl, but the past couple of days i have raised red swollen areas all over, my ears are on fire and swollen, could i be having a allergic reation?
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
gia
How is everyone doing/ I haven't posted in a while because I have been so sick.  I have some news if anyone cares, I just found out I am pregnant. I am happy and sad at the same time. I know that I have to really stay clean now. I am only one month though but I have been clean since I found out. I asked the Lord to give me a reason to live and to stay clean so I guess this is what he planned. I am still going through slight withdrawal along with morning sickness so its tough. To the ladies, has anyone been through coming off and pregancy at the same time? I hope this will make staying clean easier because I would never want to hurt my baby. Well I am glad to see everyone getting along, I hope we can really keep the peace here because I believe this form is a blessing from God and we should keep it that way. Peace.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
my heart goes out to you as well,,and your mom,,,my mom passed away from emphysema 2 years ago this christmas day..it was hell to watch her suffer,  from what i know about emphysema from many years of nursing is that people usually die from complications resulting from the emphysema,,in the case of my mom's it was sepsis,,,an infection that took over her system...there are many support groups for copd patients, some are sponsored by the american lung association...there are even support groups on the internet that my mom had checked out..it is a progressive disease and it is a horrible disease to have and it is just as horrible to watch our loved ones suffer from it.you may want to do some reading about the disease..you mom will not be able to fight off illness as a more healthy person can  a simple common cold can knock her down,,,there are times you will want to breath for her...people with copd are very nervous people who can become aggitated very easily,,,they are frightened,,,they can't seem to get enough air,,,their gas exchange is off and they cannot blow off the gases that make them feel as though they are suffocating..be very supportive,  hold her hand,,be there for her..encourage her to do as much for herself as long as she is able..this may seem cruel but it will benefit her in the long run..and just remember to hug her often and tell her how much you love her,,,my prayers are with you....~~~cindi~~~
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Sandy, my heart goes out to you and your mom, emphysema is a very progressive disease. I will tell you what I know.
My mom had a mild form of it and takes only inhalers, she stopped smoking in time, My grandmother died from it 12 years ago. It got to the point that she was on oxygen 24 hours a day and could not do the littlest of tasks without breathlessness, she eventually died from it. My moms sister has it and still smokes so she is in bad shape and will end up like her mother.

The saddest thing about emphysema in my family just happened last weekend my mothers oldest brother had it terminally, wore qxygen 24 hours a day and it was progressing badly, 2 years ago his 17 year old son killed himself with a shotgun to the head, because alcoholism is so prevelent in New Mexico, he started drinking at 13 and had been in and out of rehab for years, well sat nite after my aunt and cousins left,my uncle killed himself the same way, Its not sure wether it was from his progressing ilness or his never getting over his son's death or both, but it a horrible disease. I thank God I never touched a ciggarette.

I hope your mom has the type my mom has its a little lung damage but it will not progress because she stopped in time. God Bless you and let me know how your mom is doing and keep and angel on your shoulders and keep praying Love Badgirl
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Addiction: Substance Abuse Community

Top Addiction Answerers
495284 tn?1333894042
City of Dominatrix, MN
Avatar universal
phoenix, AZ
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Is treating glaucoma with marijuana all hype, or can hemp actually help?
If you think marijuana has no ill effects on your health, this article from Missouri Medicine may make you think again.
Julia Aharonov, DO, reveals the quickest way to beat drug withdrawal.
Tricks to help you quit for good.
A list of national and international resources and hotlines to help connect you to needed health and medical services.
Herpes sores blister, then burst, scab and heal.