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imnxpat · 11-15-2007, 12:45 AM

A few years ago a routine chest x-ray turned up scarring on my lungs. Recently, I came down with an upper respiratory infection and had another chest x-ray, It was only then that I was advised that scarring is a sign of chronic emphsyema which it turns out that I have had for several years and didn't even know it.

The kicker here is that emphysema is usually associated with smoking, and I am an inveterate non-smoker. However, both my parents were heavy cigarette users, so it's possible my condition is the result of childhood exposure to second-hand smoke.

The point that I would like to make is that if there was the excuse of ignorance regarding the consequences of exposure to second hand smoke years ago, that alibi will no longer fly. So smokers, if you love your children, do not expose them to your addiction. They don't deserve the damage that second hand smoke can cause them along with the likelihood that they will also become tobacco users. Better yet, quit the habit altogether.

Rich_by_the_Bay · 11-15-2007, 06:17 AM

I smell a fish.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a general term, with emphysema a term usually applied to heavy smokers. True premature COPD is not common and sometimes occurs in families with a deficiency of alpha-1-antitrypsin (along with liver problems).

But just having scars on your chest x-ray is totally inadequate to make a diagnosis of emphysema -- especially in a nonsmoker. Could be from prior infection, occupational exposures, etc. Other tests, such as pulmonary function tests, are needed. If you doctor has not addressed those issues, ask again. If you don't get satisfaction I'd see a pulmonologist.

But, you are right - second hand smoke is nasty stuff.