I recently went to a pulmonologist because I have felt for several years that I couldn't breath deeply enough and I have had a chronic cough since I had a very light case of pneumonia in 1996. Each year I mention this to my primary care physician and he listens to my breathing and says everything is fine.
The pulmonologist said my test for inhaling was fine, but exhaling was low; I was given two sprays of something and test was repeated, but I don't know the results. He showed me my x rays and said there were 2 small calcified areas which could be due to histoplasmosis, which is prevalent here and he also saw something which might be bronchiectasis. He ordered a CAT scan and the nurse called today to say that he wanted me to come back in next week to discuss the results of my tests.
I want to understand enough of what's going on that I can intelligently discuss diagnosis, options for treatment, etc. I've read the definition of bronchiectasis in the dictionary, but that's about the end of my knowledge.
I'm 66 years old, have never smoked; however my husband smoked for about 15 years. I have a background in medical technology for 35 years, but just not very knowledgeable about lung problems.
Will appreciate a condensed version of what I need to know.
Thanks,
Sylvia