Diagnosis, Pt .2

I had to go to my doctor's this morning for a physical and evaluation of my COPD. The nurse took my weight and BP etc, and then she gave me a 'system check' form to fill out while she went to get the EKG machine and the doc.
The form was basically a long list of symptoms and maladies with a yes/no box next to each one. This is a good idea- it helped remind me to ask about some minor aches that I have been ignoring since my COPD diagnosis on Monday.

I marked the appropriate boxes and an EKG was done. Let's look in this hole. And that hole.
Awww...do we have to look in that hole?
Breath into this. Inhale. Blow.

After I had been hyperventilated, poked and EKG'd, my doc asked me how I was feeling.

"I've been on the edge of a constant panic attack since Monday. My meds are not helping one bit. I am exhausted."

"Hmm...", he looked at the form I had filled out and asked why I had written "COPD" in big letters at the very top.

Because, I told him, that was the X-ray result I was given by your nurse on Monday.

He was puzzled.

It turned out that the radiologist's analysis- which is not intended as a diagnosis - was given to me over the phone before my long-time doctor had even reviewed the 'Rays. I was given a guess on Monday.

I do not have emphysema . I do not have COPD or lung cancer.
Lung cancer killed my mom and it's a deep fear of mine and worrying about it has been pushing me to the edge- but I'm spot-free.

I do have some very mild scarring in my upper lung lobes, but if I don't smoke, it won't get worse. I can expect the odd asthma attack, no big deal.
And I have a strangely shaped diaphragm in my chest- probably from birth- it is just slightly less effective at aiding the breathing process than a 'normal' person's.

Hell, yesterday I had to run uphill two blocks to catch my bus and I wasn't winded at all- since I quit drinking I have dropped fifty pounds , been exercising and eating well and I feel better than ever. How could I have emphysema? I have smoked a lot of pot, but never cigarettes.

Anyway, my doctor thinks that much of my discomfort is from stress and tension.
Duh.
Yeah, being misdiagnosed with an incurable disease or two will make you tense alright- last year my Granny was told she had a week or less to live- I just called her today and gave her my good news. She's feeling well.
My uncle was diagnosed with lung cancer a few years back. His second opinion found flaws in the lab and x-ray work. He merely had pneumonia and survived.

That sort of thing will pluck one's nerves.

I feel a lot more relaxed now though. Much better.

Thanks to all my pals for the many well wishes!

Note to self: The next time I get lab results from a nurse I will ask "Has the doctor seen these yet?"