Dear Laz,
Apologies for the slow reply, to you and @holyhead both.
I don’t think I’ll be of help to you. After x-rays, MRIs, and breathing tests, the final prognosis is asthma, not COPD. I still get short of breath after a short walk or any exertion, really, and have an Albuterol inhaler for that. I avoid using that except at bedtime, helps me breathe when I lie down.
If it helps, here are my test results:
IMPRESSION: Spirometry shows no obstruction. There is no significant bronchodilator response. The TLC is normal. The RV/TLC is elevated indicating air trapping. The diffusing capacity is increased. MIP within normal range; MEP is slightly decrease, this could suggest respiratory muscle weakness though not specific for this.
Elevation of left hemidiaphragm with adjacent left basilar atelectasis/fibrosis. Emphysematous changes.
No developing pulmonary mass.
No pneumothorax. Central airways are patent without evidence for endobronchial lesion. Previously noted subpleural nodule right middle lobe is not seen at this time.
There is elevation of the left diaphragm. Atelectasis noted within the left lower lung field. No pleural effusion.
The cardiologist also had tests, including Coronary CTA, stress tests and a heart catheterization. His final prognosis: my coronary system is clear of blockages, in good shape for 69 years old, EXCEPT…
I have an aneurysm in my aortic root (where it leaves the heart). Normal is 2-3 cm, I have “Dilation of aortic root to 4.6 cm” where 5 cm is a danger point. So, that is a concern.
I hope this helps you in some way. Jim