I'm certainly not a cardiac/pulmonary specialist, but I share some of your issues.
I suspect, based on my own symptoms, that your pulmonary problems are trumping your cardiac issues. That being said, the pulmonary pressures probably have enlarged your right atrium. Where I live, I have access to all my tests, and I just had an echo, stress test, and breathing study, and have requested copies of the procedures, and by law am entitled to them.
You have a history of pumonary issues, I have a history or cardiac issues, but an enlarged right atrium results in the same issue, we have trouble getting our breath. I'm your age, by the way.
If you can't talk to your doctors directly, I suggest you get a copy of your studies and post the results here, or on the pulmonary site, or both.
Keep us informed.
Thanks Flycaster305,
I certainly have a history of cardiomegaly, likely a result of a life of compensation. Chest films confirm i have an enlarged heart, and have done for years.
I feel that perhaps, only now is it becoming an issue as i am beginning to de-compensate. Thats why i am worried that my pulmonary specialist is jumping to oxygen (to relieve my breathlessness) as opposed to pharmacological management of my heart (to relieve the load and strain).
I also have access to my results. Will share my echo results here when i get them
My common sense is telling me that if your saturation comes to low 80s on exertion you will need oxygen. If I were you I would get it and will use it when I feel I need it, not necessarily 24 hours to start with.
In the other hand, if the result of your echo shows dilated chambers and/or reduced EF, a visit to a cardiologist will be logical to get the right medication.
Jesus