What is the life expectancy of someone with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with one half of lung capacity?

Answer 1

I have sever COPD with about 30% to 35% lung capacity. While in the hospital with an Asthma aggrevated episode of the COPD, I had a lot information given to me. Later I read through many internet web sites that covered a varity of lung diseases. None of experts that contributed information or statistical reports from controlled tests were able to make only vague and general "guesses" as to life expectancy. The key elements to prolong life with the disease, usually combined with other lung disorders, are: exercise perferably in a clinical setting of rehabilitation, or at home; a good diet which any hospital is more than happy to supply as well as many organizations that can be found on the web; take whatever medications that have been recommended for your condition; stay away from heat and humidity and tiggers such as pollen, dust, animals, unclean living accomdations; use the only true drug for the treatment of the disease, "Oxygen." Also, meet with your doctor regularly and maintain a daily diary of how you are doing and perhaps if you feel any affects that make the COPD especially pronounced. This helps to gradually build your "personal" medical profile. In some cases results from periodic breathing tests in the doctor's office provide a general view of worsening or improvment in your condition. Your doctor usually would like testing once a year. The idea of following the guidlines for lifestyle is COPD can be stopped from getting worse or slowing its progress, or the real possibility of actually improving your lungs' health which affects the health improvement of the entire body. Another important thing a COPD patient can do is not to think negatively about the disease. With or without prior warnings of impending danger things do happen. Get to know other patients and share experiences and ideas on how to cope with everyday situations. Even a small change in how a task is performed or a change in diet many often provide unexpected improvment. Slow down when you sense your pace exceeds your ability to continue. While do tasks take frequent breaks to relax your lungs and heart. When you feel stronger then you can continue. If possible ask for help from family and friends. Don't let simple pride stand in your way. Be confident! If your a religious person pursue that direction for support. The important element of dealing with the disease is avoid a depressed outlook on life. That really makes your condition much more serious. Bottom line on how long any us have to live is impossible for any professional or fellow patient to answer. If you are that concern about when death takes hold then just stand in front of speeding train. That way you not only achieved control of your life but you have answered your expectancy question.