Hello, My Name is Donna

[Guest guest]

I just thought I would take the time to introduce myself. This is my first post

to the group. I am 48 female,living in Iowa for almost 5 years now. I am

originally from Mo. but have traveled most of my life!

I have been diagnosed with COPD for several years now. I had my first bout of

pneumonia about 6 years ago and have had it several times since then. Recently I

was in the hospital with a stay of 6 days this was week before last I think. My

oxygen kept staying in the lower 80s when they took the oxygen off. So I am now

at home on oxygen 24/7. Its been brought up that I have emphysema but not until

an ER visit last night did a Dr answer yes that I have what she believes

emphysema and pretty bad pulmonary fibrosis. The scarring I am aware started

with my first bout of pneumonia. (that is at least when the Dr told me he saw

scarring.

It has been mentioned I have Mild CHF (Congestive Heart Failure). But that

diagnosis has not been real clear just brought up several times. If I remember

correctly I've had (2) echo cardiograms the first was said to look good but the

second one only a month later was said to see some mild CHF.

This last 6 day hospital stay was very hard on me (the worse so far)!

I've been very scared! This is my first time home on oxygen. I am scheduled to

see a Pulmonary Specialist in Nov. There is many questions I have because it

seems no one is being totally clear.

My Mother died of emphysema at 59. With me being 48 I am pretty scared. I use to

smoke for close to 22 years and stopped after mom died which has been close to

13 years.

Thank you for being here and I look forward to participating in the group and

knowing you all. Wishing all well...

mischievouskitten (aka: Donna) Iowa