I am 47 and a smoker. Due to a ongoing cough I had a CT scan done about six months ago which indicated that I had emphysema from years of smoking. So naturally I gave up smoking with the help of nicotine replacement therapy. The coughing stopped almost immediately.
About two weeks ago I had a pulmonary function test done where you blow into a tube and met with a Pulmonologist. He said my figures were good..all above 100% except for one which was 76%. He didn't feel the need to give me an inhaler of any kind and has instead booked me in for another CT scan in six months. He advised me to get flu shots also which I did. Occasionally in the AM I bring up mucus which has blood in it. Not very often and I think thats why he is ordering another CT scan to rule out lung cancer.
Currently I breath shallow and every so often I need to take a deep breath to catch up. It doesn't really effect my day to day that much.
Something has happened the last few days which has me alarmed. I am seeking my doctor tomorrow about it. On new years eve I went out and drank about 7 drinks. The next day I felt really bad in the left chest area. For the last few mornings I have had blood in my mucus, tightness in my chest and my breathing has been alot more laboured which effected my sleep and gave me headaches. Is this the result of catching an infection in the lungs all caused by alcohol? Anyone else have this experience?
I just found this site and this is all new to me. I plan on starting an exercise regime as soon as I feel better.