Today, I found out the answer to that question thanks to the good people on this platform. To recap, I am a 62 yo female who began smoking in my teens, quit daily smoking in 2005, and socially smoked (mostly in the warmer months) until last year. In January, I had a CT scan at my request to screen for lung cancer. I was told no nodules or masses, but it found "moderate emphysema" and gave medirections to have a follow up CT scan in a year. I was shocked as I had no symptoms, am healthy, and active. I started Googling, which was a big mistake because it is all gloom and doom (5-7 years!). Thankfully, I found this group and in addition to so much more, learned about PFT tests. I pushed my GP for a referral to a Pulmonologist. My lab test was this morning at 8:00 am followed by a meeting with the Pulmonologist at 1:30 pm. She did not agree with the radiologist's result. She saw "mild emphysema" on the CT in line with my history and age. More importantly, my PFT labs are normal to (her words not mine) Super Star!
Thank you all so much for the support, encouragement, and direction you provide. I am so grateful as I would not have known without you Caroline, das23, Karen, and Dr. Mannino, anything about PFT tests. When I felt anxious, I came here and you helped to calm my fears. Prayers for all who are affected by COPD. You are not alone. 🧡💙