COPD and hyperaeraed lungs diagnosis

[bundleblocker]

I was recently in the ER due to chest pains. Heart is fine according to tests performed, but an x-ray showed over-inflated lungs and the diagnosis was COPD. I don't understand this diagnosis. I have been a runner for 30 years and jog now (due to knee problems) and never have breathing problems. Also, doesn't the fact that the tech tells you to take a deep breath before the x-ray make the x-ray show over-inflated lungs?

. Also in this recent ER visit, although the report showed this and the diagnosis of COPD, the er doctor on duty did NOT discuss this with me. Wouldn't he have said something like "Oh, you have COPD, better see a pulmonary specialist asap.  But he said nothing, other than "Your heart is ok.'  

Any suggestions?  I assume my internist and cardiologist received copies of my tests in the ER. But I have heard nothing from either doctor. Maybe they didn't even look at them?  

Should I be worried?

[David Tinkelman, M.D.]

"Over-inflated lungs" can be seen with emphysema and asthma.  Can also be seen with a number of much less common lung diseases.  Finally, lungs can be misinterpreted as over inflated when the inspiratory effort is exceptional or the X-ray technique is not within recommended limits.  The reason why the ER doctor on duty did not mention this to you may be because the lungs were not deemed by him/her to be hyperinflated.  

You should not assume that your internist received and read this report.  I suggest that you call their offices and request that the doctor look at the report (and the X-ray if available) and arranges to render his/her opinion.

The diagnosis of COPD should not be made solely on the basis of a chest X-ray.  You should not be worried, but you should follow-up on this.

Good luck

[bundleblocker]

Thank you so much for your response! I will follow up-----