Hi everyone. My 42yo husband was diagnosed with mild COPD 1.5 years ago, almost by accident. He received a CT scan on chest due to unrelated joint pain and they noticed mild emphysema. From there, his first FEV test indicated Stage 1 COPD (64). He had smoked for 20 years so quit immediately and also began exercising regularly and eating well. One year after diagnosis, his FEV1/fvc levels were back to normal range (70%) with 25% increase in FEV.. and he crushed his 6min walk and other tests. He continues to not smoke, exercise heavily and avoid polluted air.
Still, despite huge progress and doctors reassurances, he is convinced he is going to die within 15 years regardless and will experience significant reduction to life expectancy. (He said he “read on the internet” that the maximum someone can live with COPD is 20 years, which I know is not true!!) Can you guys help reassure us that with this early detection and lifestyle changes, plus these normal tests, he can live at least 20 years into 60s to see our kids through college! Any long haulers that can weigh in? Thank you!!