What should I expect?

[Guest guest]

Hello Everyone!

I have been lurking and reading for a couple months now and feel

that I am ready to ask a big question. (Sorry if this is so long)

I am 59 yo and had open heart by-pass in November. My only symptom

was extrene shortness of breath and fatigue. The surgery went fine

and I went home with SOB but that has improved with my cardiac rehab

expercise program.

Now I only get extremely SOB when I climb stairs or walk up hills.

I take Spiriva each morning and have an emergency inhaler which I

use every few days. My oxygen level is in the mid 90's at rehab.

A month ago I could feel crackling upon inhaling & exhaling. I don't

feel it now but don't feel like I can take a big deep breath.

My pulmonary doc verified what I've read that life expectancy is not

great and a transplant is the only cure. He is pleased with the

progress I've made and wants to check me every few months.

OK, my question is what should I expect now? Does the SOB just get a

bit worse month by month or do you notice a sudden change. Could I

stay as I am now for years and then go downhill? Does each case

progress at its ow pace?

Thanks all!

Mark, Raleigh, NC

IPF 12/07