I was determined to do the best I could to verify my diagnosis. I had zero trust in the emergency room doctor I had initially seen and was unclear as to how the diagnosis was made.
First I checked my medical records thoroughly. What I found there was inclusive, although yes, ideopathic pulmonary fibrosis was mentioned. COPD and asthma were also mentioned. I have suffered from asthma on and off my entire life so that was not news.
Finally, I asked my primary care physician; a doctor I have a lot of trust in. He said my breathing issues were a combination of factors. That left me with a sliver of hope.
Personally, I know this. My breathing has gotten somewhat worse in the past three years, but I have had periods where it is much better - nearly normal. Am I inching my way toward death by suffocation? I don't know, but my guess is that I probably am. The good periods are so damned good that I can deal with that future - at least for now.
I don't think my situation is as bad as it is for other folks with IPF, so I sure can't speak for them and I sure can't give any advice. I just live while I can and make an effort to deal with things when they are not good. Right now, they are good and you can bet I am going to take advantage of that.
