Hi

I'm in the UK, but sadly it seems we don't have a great site like this.

Last week I was diagnosed with emphysema. I'm only 39 years old and haven't smoked for some years now.

I complained to my doctor about a persistent cough years ago, but it was ignored due to the fact I was a smoker. It was then ignored as I was an ex smoker. Finally, a new doctor took the trouble to send me for an xray and ......I have emphysema.

I guess, like everyone, I googled it straightaway and frightened myself beyond belief. My appointment with the doctor isn't for a few days, so I was hoping you guys would point me in the directions of questions you suggest I should ask.

I swim every day 50-120 lengths of the pool and don't even get out of breath, so it was a complete shock to me. The doctor did say briefly over the phone that it was only at the top of my lungs. He also said it wouldn't get any worse as I don't smoke any more. Interestingly, last year a doctor sent me for spirometry tests, which had great results, so good in fact, Iwas told it was better results than someone who had never smoked. But then I read that spirometry test is the usual for diagnosing emphysema, so how could this be??

I'd b e very grateful for any help/suggestions. Thankyou