Emphysema at 32?

[mpongo]

Hi, I'm a 32 years old male. I felt shortness of breath 4 weeks ago, and quit smoking since then. I went to ER first and doctor said anxiety migth be the cause.

Few days later I've seen another doctor (a very good pulmonary specialist) to make sure. He checked my chest x-ray (taken at ER previously), said there's nothing serious to worry about, advised me to quit smoking and mentioned 'a start or beginning emphysema' (don't remember the exact words).

I still feel a little shortness of breath, especially at nights. I've read on forums, that this also happens to many people as a result of quitting smoking (along with some other withdrawal symptoms).

The thing is I don't feel shortness of breath at all when I exercise or walk/run outside. Contrary I feel a lot better if I exercise when I feel SOB. It's getting better and better each day from the time I quit 4 weeks ago.

[pete3867]

yeah , I gave up smoking a couple of years back, but I was having the odd spliff (im an artist and I sometimes used it for inspiration) when I say the odd one I mean the odd one like as in one single skin a week, now the good thing is about our situations and I know it aint great ,, but ,, we know.. and now I aint ever ever going to put another silly bloody smoke to my lips ..and Im sure you feel the same , because niether of us felt any symptoms if we hadnt have got it checked out we could have still been doing it for years ...but now at least we are both going to take action ,,,..always look on the bright side of life ...keep in touch

[mpongo]

Thanks for your answer Pete. I guess I have at most mild emphysema as the doctor didn't ask for any further tests (like PFT). He just checked the x-ray and listened to my lungs and heart.

I walk by the seaside to get fresh deep breaths each day. I'll also start cycling again in a few days. I'm feeling better and better. Hoping to be fully recovered soon.

[pete3867]

thats exactly how I feel , im 42 and my doc said I had a little bit of emphysema after a chest xray , but I am not really out of breath when excercising at all , but the word emphysema is like saying 'hey your gonna slowly suffocate ' but theres nothing to worry about ..Im afraid I cant help you other than that cos im in the same boat