things could be a LOT worse. I finally received a letter from my doctor concerning the pulmonary function test that I took two weeks ago. Anyway, I am not happy with his idea of reporting my results. He stated in the letter that the tests indicated that I have mild emphysema and that with time, and with the continuation of not smoking, that my pulmonary function will improve. That was it. Nothing else. Okay, let's hold the phone here folks. I have always heard that once you are diagnosed with this type of cronic disease that stopping smoking will keep the disease from progressing at the current (accelarated) rate but that also the damage from emphysema is irreversible. So anyway, I called his office to ask for an accurate description of the results including the meaning of each of the values resulting from each test performed. I haven't even gotten the actual test results from him! Granted, I did this to myself but I certainly have the right to know to what degree I have compromised my lungs and ability to breathe. You know, I am really, really not happy with his idea of how to inform patients of their conditions. The funny thing is, you know, this could have all been a lot worse and with a much more pressing, permanent outcome. I consider myself very lucky tonight. But, for all you folks on the fence about quitting here is a tidbit for you to seriously consider about why you should stay quit....I have never felt out of breath or had a chronic cough and very, very rarely come down with a cold. And look at what I have smoked myself into. Think about it, is that cigarette really all that important? Whew, I am glad I asked for these tests. Just more fuel for my desire to keep from smoking. Thanks for letting me vent.
Joonie
[B]My Milage:[/B]
[B]My Quit Date: [/B] 4/22/2006
[B]Smoke-Free Days:[/B] 46
[B]Cigarettes Not Smoked:[/B] 938
[B]Amount Saved:[/B] $161
[B]Life Gained:[/B]
[B]Days:[/B] 5 [B]Hrs:[/B] 2 [B]Mins:[/B] 54 [B]Seconds:[/B] 10
