Hello,
I've been reading the forums for a while now and have also read the some of the educational articles.
I'm looking for clarification on a few items. A bit of background.
Smoked many years. Quit 7.5 years ago. Was approximately 100 lbs overweight and did not exercise until early this year. I have lost 50 lbs so far and walk/jog 6 days per week and do strength training 2 days per week.
I get low dose CT scans yearly. Have had a few nodules (2mm each) which have been characterized as stable per these scans. Also, have what has been characterized on CT scans as mild emphysema. Some scarring has been noted and recent CT scan noted bronchial wall thickening (probably bronchitis) which was not noted before.
Several months ago, the pulmonologist put me on Symbicort (generic) after initial exam and scheduled a PFT. Symbicort was stopped 6 days prior to the PFT. The PFT results came back ok showing mild air trapping. (FVC 88; FEV1 96; FEV1/FVC% 81; TLC 104; RV 131; DLCO 116).
My questions are: How accurate is the PFT as a baseline, given I was using the inhaler for months prior to the test - stopping only 6 days before? The pulmonologist said the inhaler would need to be stopped for 3 months before its effects wouldn't interfere. Is this accurate? I would like to know what my actual baseline is and am considering stopping the inhaler for 3 months and retesting. I don't feel like I can be sure I'm being accurately treated if this isn't a true result.
Is it common to put someone with mild emphysema on an inhaler, although they are not displaying symptoms? Has it been proven that the inhalers slow progression? Are they given as a protective measure?
Also, how accurate are low dose CT scans on picking up the size or growth of nodules? I have had yearly tests for 5 years or more and there is no increase in size, but one test didn't show them. I have been told that is because of how the test is imaged (slices) and it may not be picking up the true size of the nodule - only a part of it. To get a clearer picture of the nodules, a regular CT scan will be done in the near future. Is that usually the next best step or is there a better test at examine nodules (other than biopsy).
Lastly, I am looking for a new pulmonologist. I didn't see a listing of doctors that could be searched on this site. Is there a site to find one other than a regular internet search?
I'd appreciate any insight into these questions and, if you need any more info from me, please let me know.
Thank you.