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Kookai
Kookai asked in HealthDiseases & ConditionsRespiratory Diseases · 4 weeks ago

Am I thinking correctly??

I recently had a chest xray because an earlier xray said there was "mild hyperinflation" in the lungs. The result of the most recent xray said.."No interval change with features of potential, predominantly upper lobe emphysema". "The remainder of the exam is unremarkable". My Dr. is sending me for a pulmonary function test, & I know what that is. I'm worried, but the thing keeping me somewhat calm is the word "potential". I'm thinking the "potential" doesn't mean I have emphysema, just that it's more of a "possible". If the statement said "consistent with emphysema", I'd be more worried. Am I thinking correctly?

Again, I'm worried, but also thinking...one step at a time. Thanks.

Update:

The "earlier" xray was in Oct./2017. The most recent as I mentioned was March 23/2021. Also,  when it says "no interval change" does that mean there has been no changes between the Oct/2017 xray & the March 23/2021 xray?

2 Answers

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  • Diane A
    Lv 7
    4 weeks ago
    Favourite answer

    It’s hard to accurately diagnose emphysema that is mild on just a plain X-ray. And if it’s just an upper lobe, you do not need to be worried excessively at this point at all. People can live with one lung even. 

  • Tavy
    Lv 7
    4 weeks ago

    I have been diagnosed with emphysema that was a surprise I have little symptoms., 

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