Profiles: R

Profiles R

Note: Deceased members are noted by an *

1.June Railian, 1938, F
2.Alberta, Canada grailian@telusplanet.net
no
3..Emphysema/Asthma
4.50
5.Probably in my 40's, was short of breath and kept telling myself I have to quit smoking.
6.Flu
7.No
8.X-Ray, ABG test
9.Family Doctor - not really - Finally insisted on seeing a Lung Specialist (Pulmonologist) and through them went into a at
home exercise program.
10.No
11.Serevent 2 puffs twice a day, Atrovent 2 puffs every four hours, Beclaforte 2 puffs twice a day and Ventolin on hand as needed (which is very seldom)
12.Flovent (made me short of breath)
13.Diazide and about 14 Vitamins and MSM every day
14.Can't think of any inparticular
15.No
16.Flovent(shortness of Breath)
17.Because we live out of the City I was given exercises to do at home. They consisted of walking on a tread mill or outside and to build up your length of time slowly. Arm exercises with light weights. Stepping exercises and various chair exercises.
18.No
19.Yes , 24/7, sitting 2 L.P.M. and 3 L.P.M. exercising
20.Intolerance to heat, feet always cold
21.No
22.Yes, Full
23.Yes. Sufficent
24.No
25.Yes E-Mail
26.I have learned so many things from more or less LURKING with this group. It is fantastic. Much more informative than the Doctors.
27.Former-37 years
28.yes
29.Erythromycin
30.No

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1. Marva Raines; 03-27-35; Female
2. Nevada; mtraines@aol.com
2a. I am not a caregiver.
3. My COPD is primarily Chronic Bronchitis with an Emphysema element.
4. I was 56 when diagnosed.
5. I guess I was probably 54 or so when symptoms first appeared although I do have a life-long history of bronchitis.
6. I was referred for a pulmonary test by my gynocologist during a regular yearly visit. He noticed deep indentations at the base of my throat when I inhaled coupled with a mild shortness of breath.
7. I was referred to a pulmonologist after my pulmonary test.
8. Originally just a PFT and 6 minute walk.
9. My pulmonologist conducted the tests, prescribed albuterol and vanceril inhalers but did not go into depth or detail as to what the condition was.
10. I was not pre-tested for the effectiveness of any medicines.
11 I eventually changed pulmonoligists and am currently albuterol for rescue and Advair 500/50.
12. I think the vanceril was the least effective inhaler.
13. My oral medications are theophylline 200 mg (twice a day); accolate 20 mg. (twice a day) claritin 10 mg. (once a day) and humibid l.a. (twice a day).
14. Humibid is the least effective.
15. I take zoloft 50 mg. (once a day) for depression.
16. I have had no adverse reactions to any medications so far.
17. I have been hospitalized twice with pneumonia (both times placed on a ventilator) and was then referred to a rehab program specifically designed for pulmonary problems. Two hours, twice a week; one hour education, one hour supervised exercise.
18. I currently use a nebulizer as needed for mucous buildup. I use albuterol solution .083% in it.
19. I live in the mountains outside of Las Vegas at 8500 feet above sea level. I am on oxygen 3lpm 24/7 when at home. When I am in the city (2000 feet above sea level) I am on oxygen 2lpm 24/7, although I find I can maintain all day at room air if I do not move around too much.
20. No unusual maladies.
21. I am currently employed part-time. I am a certified legal assistant and am able to work at home most of the time. I then make pickups and deliveries in the "valley" once or twice a week.
22. I am not on any type of disability.
23. My husband is still employed so I have coverage through his employer as my primary; Medicare is my secondary. My insurance coverage has been excellent so far.
24. I have not had, nor am I scheduled for, either LVRS or lung transplant.
25. I am available for individual questions from others in the group. Weekday mornings are the best time to reach me, either via e-mail, fax (702-872-0171) or telephone (702-872-5395).
26. I am the editor of a rehab support group newsletter and use the website for a large percentage of my information. I am encouraged by the loyal members of EFFORTS who are working so diligently to raise public awareness of
this disease.
27. I was a smoker for 40 years.
28. I use my treadmill at least twice a week and have resolved to increase that gradually until I reach 5 days a week, plus I work out twice a week to a video tape called Chair Dancing which has been approved by my doctor and respiratory therapist.
29. To date zithromax is the most effective antibiotic I have used.
30. I have never been tested for Alpha1 to my knowledge.

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1. : John Raven 1945 Male
2. : I live in Holland
3. : Emphysema
4. : 60
5. : 58/59
6. : Being short of breath
7. : yes
8. : spyrometer
9. : lung doctors assistant
10. : no
11. : qvar 2puffs 2xday /salbutamol as rescuen.a.
12. : n/a
13. : n/a
14. : n/a
15. : no
16: other than husky throat with qvar nothing
17. : yes sent to a exercise 4 life a sports club
18. : no
19. : no
20: onlyif is too hot
21. : full time - shift work at a airport
22. : no
23. : have a insurance that everyone has to have herein hola d
24. : no
25. : johnraven@wanadoo.nl
26:
27. : yes
28. : yes
29. : so far have not needed one
30. : no

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1. : Larry Raynak - 1937-M
2. : lraynak@aquamist.com California
3. : Emphysema
4. : 1999
5. : 50's
6. : Open Heart Surgery
7. : No
8. : ?? had several
9. : VA personnel-yes
10. : no
11. : Nebulizer -Abuterol, Ipratropium & Aerobid-2 puffs 2 times daily
12. : No opinion
13. : none other for emphyzema
14. : No opinionm
15. : None
16: None
17. : No
18. : Yes- Albuterol & Ipratropium
19. : Yes, On walks and for some activity
20: No
21. : Business owner -part time participation
22. : Neither
23. : VA Veteran- Very Adequate
24. : No
25. : Yes - usually daily
26: None presently
27. : Former -45 years
28. : Walking - 3 Times a week
29. : Haven't had any
30. : No

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1. Ronald A. Renaud 1945 Male
2. Ct. rrenaud@earthlink.net
3. Emphysema
4. 49
5. 47
6. Unable to Breath
7. Yes
8. X-ray and PFT
9. Specialist no not at that time
10. Trial and Error
11. Albuterol (2/4) Atrovent (2/3) Servent (2/2) Flovent 220 (2/2)
12. Azmascort, Vanceril
13. Prednisone 5MG-Rabeprazole 20MG-Amitriptyline 50MG-Clonazepam
5MG-Fosamzx 70mg-Testred 10MG
14. Theophilline(not sure of spelling)
15. No
16. Sulpher - terrible headaches
17. Yes - Bicycle-Free Wghts-Nu-Step(Both Arms and Legs
18. Yes, Albuterol up to (6) times a day in place of inhaler
19. Yes 24/7
20. Intolerance to heat, and cold & insominia(Have sleep disorder Restless Legs from medications
21. No
22. Full Disability
23. Private Insurance HMO(From Work was also retired after 25 years)
24. No
25. Yes, E-mail
26. None at this time
27. Former
28. Yes
29. It Keeps Changeing all the time for now its Vantin
30. Not sure but was told have final stage of E

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1. Diane A Rene   1949   Female
2. California    DRene29714@AOL.COM
3. Emphysema
4. 48
5. 46
6. Constant colds, bad coughs
7. Yes - right away
8. Stress Tests, blowing into a tube inside of a chamber, x-rays
9. Pulmonogist and a Heart Specialist
10. Yes
11. Pulmicort, atovent, albuterol
12. atovent
13. Prednisone 20 mg, Nortriptyline 10mg. Lasix 40 mg.Nitroglycern 2.5 mg
    Hydrocodone 5mg. Phenylprop 75mg. Cefaclor 500 mg.
14. Theodur
15. Prozac 30mg 3 x a day, Nortriptyline 10 mg. Wellbutrin 150 mg
16. Sweating profusely, tongue irritation, nervousness, jitters
17. None
18. Albuterol
19. No
20. Intolerance to heat or cold
21. Permanently disabled - was a social worker - exposure to clients always kept me sick.
22. Full disability
23. Medicare/HMO - Happy with coverage
24. No
25. Available - Afternoons - attend school in the mornings
26. I can't handle catching colds, I have become paranoid around strangers never know what germs they may have. This disease has wrecked havoc on my nerves, and I have been diagnosed with lupus, and manic depressant.
27. Yes
28. I walked maybe a mile a day, if health permits
29. Cefaclor - never leave home without it,
30. No,

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1. : Ruth Reeves, 1937, Female
2. : New Jersey, rreeves20@aol.com
3. : emphysema
4. : 62
5. : 50
6. : hospital stay
7. : no
8. : PFT
9. : doctor, NO
10. : No
11. : Advair 500/50 every 12 hrs. combivent
12. : Proventil
13. : Predisone 10mg. daily
14. : none
15. : xanax, 0.25mg. Zoloft 50mg
16. : no adverse reaction to any meds
17. : not by doctor, physical and occupational therapist came to house after hospitalization
18. : DuoNeb in nebulizer 4 times day
19. : oxygen 24/7
20. : incontinence, sleeplessness
21. : NO
22. : NO
23. : Medicate and private, not sufficient
24. : NO
25. : yes
26. : Most information on disease and exercising came from EFFORTS members.Exercising has made me feel like a new person. Cannot get to rehab but exercise everyday at home.
27. : Former
28. : Yes
29. : Levaquin
30. : NO

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1. : Yvonne Reeves-1945-F
2. : Reevestooma@aol.com
3. : Emphysema
4. : 53
5. : 52
6. : could not breathe
7. : yes
8. : pft/x/rays
9. : pulmonary dr.
10. : no
11. : advair-1 puff 2x day/combivent-every 4 hrs/albuterol as needed
12. : all effective
13. : norvasc 10mg 1xdaily/ prednisone 5mg daily
14. : theophyline
15. : xanex .25 1x daily
16. : no
17. : no
18. : albuterol/atrovent
19. : no
20. : sleeplessness
21. : no
22. : yes
23. : no
24. : no
25. : anytime
26. :
27. : former
28. : no
29. : don't remember
30. : no

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1. : Kenneth Reynolds 6/3/1962 male
2. : kndsgifts@yahoo.com
3. : Emphysema
4. : 41
5. : 40
6. : chest pain
7. : no
8. : chest xray ,breathing test, xray of spine
9. : primary doctor and No
10. : no
11. : none
12. :
13. :
14. :
15. : neurontin 300 mg,celebrex 200 mg,allegra 180 mg
16. : no
17. : no
18. : no
19. : no
20. : sleep is aweful,upper weakness, short of breath walking up 10 steps
21. : full time mechanic
22. :
23. : hmo
24. : no
25. :
26. :
27. : yes
28. : no only work
29. :
30. : what is this ?

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1.Linda Rich 1947.. female
2.Massachusetts.. email.. blackwidow047@webtv.net
3.type of COPD.. emphysema
4.first diagnosed at age 42
5.symptoms first appeared at age 38
6.i was prompted to visit te doctor because over-the-counter inhalers were not helping my breathing.
7.i was not referred to pulmonologist until 1998.
8.i was given PFT tests.
9.i was given tests in pulmonary clinic in hospital. yes, i feel i was given sufficient info at the time.
10.no, i was not pretested ever for effectiveness of medications.
11.i use following inhalers:
albuterol..2 puff every 4 hrs.
combivent..2 puffs every four hours
serevent.. 4 puffs every 8 hrs.
flovent..2 puffs every 6 hrs
azmacort..4 puffs every 8 hrs
12.flovent least effective in my opinion.
13.oral medications..prednisone, 10 mg. daily.. uniphyl , 20 mg. daily
14. least effective, uniphyl
15.i am not now or ever have used any antidepressants.
16.no adverse reactions to any medications
17.no type of rehab has ever been suggested to me by my doctor. mild exercise has been reccommended.
18. yes, i use a nebulizer,albuterol sulfate 0.083.. 4 times daily
19.i am not using supplemental oxygen
20.i have trouble holding bladder when i am short of breath. i also have problem sleeping due to the prednisone.
21.i am not employed, i have been unemployed for 2 years due to illness.
22.i am on full time disability due to emphysema
23.i have medicare insurance. so far it has been sufficient.
24.i have not had LVRS or transplant
25.i am always available for questions from any individuals
26.personal obsevations?
27.i am a former smoker, i hope. i have quit smoking 2 weeks ago. i smoked for 39 years.
28.i exercise very moderately
29.the most effective antibiotic i have been given is Levaquin tablets, 500 mg
30. i have not yet been tested for Alpha 1. i am scheduled for that test in August.

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1) Peter Richardson       born 1943    Male
2) British Columbia, Canada.    psrichardson@cablelan.net
3) diagnosed only as Severe Copd
4) 50
5) since childhood
6) changed doctors
7) no
8) pulmonary function tests, x-ray, ekg, lung catscan
9) family doctor      yes/no
10) yes
11) a) Atrovent 3-4 puffs 4x daily,
      b) Advair 250/50 Diskus 1-puff, twice a day 12 hours apart.
      c) Airomir (CFC free Salbutamol) as required.
          Prednisone
12) Prednisone made no improvement so was taken off of this
13) none
14) n/a
15) no
16) no
17) no
18) no
19) no
20) no
21) no
22) full disability
23) private insurance & B.C.medical
24) no
25) yes anytime
26) Since joining this group i have learned much more about managing this disease, also what questions to ask my new doctor (when i find one).
27) former
28) yes, walking & golf
29) never needed any.
30) Yes

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1. : Shari Richardson, 1959, Female
2. : WI, richardsonsd2000@yahoo.com
3. : Emphysema
4. : 36
5. : 31
6. : Shortness of Breath, infections
7. : No, not for several years.
8. : PFT, Lung Scan, CT Scan, Chest X-ray
9. : Pulmonologist, Yes
10. : No
11. : Albuterol, Advair-500/50, Spiriva
12. : All seemed about the same
13. : Theophylline-600 mg, Singulair-10 mg
14. : All seemed about the same
15. : Celexa-20mg, Amitryptilline-20 mg
16. : Prednisone off and on over last 9 years has caused weight gain.
17. : Not until after 9 years post-diagnosis.
18. : Albuterol
19. : 2 liters continuous at bedtime and during any activity.
20. : Incontinence, sleep problems, depression, intolerance to heat
21. : No
22. : Full disability
23. : Medicare, Badgercare-I guess it is okay coverage.
24. : I was referred for lung transplant but was rejected since my FEV-1 level was over 20%. They are now deciding if LVR would benefit me.
25. : Yes- email in afternoons.
26. : I have been very depressed following my rejection for lung transplant since I still am very sob and am having a hard time doing alot of things and they aren't sure if LVR would benefit me. I was also rejected for a bullectomy since the large hole I have has good lung mixed in. My family is as supportive as they can be, however sometimes I think they just don't "get it".
27. : Former
28. : Walk treadmill with o2.
29. : Z- pack
30. : Yes-test was negative

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1. Claire Richert, 1932, female

2. Florida Joseph@FLIPS.net

2a. No

3. Combination of three

4, 5 & 6. Murky because had problem for sometime before MD. "put a name" to it. Will combine these three items. SOB started Jan 1985 following a near fatal illness, brought on by family doctor prescribing medicine for me containing Aspirin, which is toxic to me. He knew this and I had reminded him at time of his writing the prescription, so he could never later explain what he was thinking of. He was quite uncomfortable with subjectprobably afraid I was going to sue him, and just referred to it as SOB. Never prescribed any treatment but would say I should stop smoking.

Then Xmas 1988 had severe case of bronchitis and he put me in hospital for approx. six days. At that time, he wrote COPD on my chart. I asked what it meant and he said it was a catchall phrase for a variety of pulmonary illnesses. Still never prescribed any treatment. Still advised to quit smoking. Which I didn't.

Summer of 1989 I fractured both wrists but this same doctor insisted it was rheumatoid arthritis. (Even tho he knew I had Osteo.!) Refused to Xray. He prescribed antiinfmammatory medicine for me, which I can't take, and was quite annoyed that I questioned his diagnosis and wouldn't cooperate with medication. At that point I belatedly parted company with that doctor, went to another who x-rayed to find both wrists fractured. By that time, natural healing had set in, otherwise I'd have been set in casts.

Went thru several doctors over time. Did find a doctor who more actively treated my osteoporosis but no one ever suggested much about my SOB except one PCP who put me on Theodur pills.

7. 1995. I read about LVRS and asked my doctor about it and I said I needed to get some help for my condition because it was becoming unbearable. He referred me to Pulmonary specialist. (By this time, I had quit smoking, a major accomplishment.)

8. All appropriate tests. - Treadmill, walking, breath tests, etc.

9. Doctor and his staff. Yes, everything was explained to me adequately, I believe.

10. I was tested with Atrovent to check "before and after" response.

11. Currently on Atrovent inhaler, 4 puffs 4x daily; Serevent inhaler, 2 puffs, twice daily, Theodur tablets, 1 pill 2x daily.

12. NA for Emphysema. Also taking medication for Osteoporosis (Didronel). Was tried on Fosamax but had bad reactions to it.

13. Take Caltrate for bones, and Osteo-Bi-Flex for arthritis, Hydrocodone for pain.

14. NA Used to take Miacalcin for bones but my Humana HMO PCP won't permit me to continue with Rheum. spec. and says I don't need anything other than the didronel and caltrate.

15. No

16. Fosamax (for bones) caused me severe heartburn and swollen neck glands.

17. Yes, I went thru ReHab program - treadmill, range of motion exer. with barbells, walking, PFlex.

18. Have a nebulizer with Albuterol, but it doesn't seem to do anything except raise heart beat to uncomforable level and make me very nervous.

19. Yes, 24/7 at 3.5 to 4 ltr.

20. Sensitive to heat and cold. Incontinent when oxy. sat. level drops low and I go into "suffocation" attack. Also extremely sensitive to variations in heat and cold.

Also have "mystery ailment", which I named such because no doctor has ever been able to explain it or diagnose it. It is intense sensitivity in abdomen and diaphraghm to any pressure or weight. Can't sit, stand or walk without propping or lifting upper body so it exerts little downward pressure on abdom.

My personal guess is that its from having lost 2 inches in stature due to compression vertebral fractures, and all internal organs are compressed into less space.

Even tho very small, I've developed "pot belly" that I never had before. This developed simultaneously with the Big E and the Osteoporosis. I believe that's the cause of the problem but at a loss for a solution and no Dr. has helped.

21. No

22. No

23. Humana medicare HMO

24. No but surely wish I could be eligible for LVRS!

25. Prefer no personal contact, because of condition, difficulty with getting to phone, SOB talking, etc.

26. Enough gab above, don't you think?

27. Yes, former. 40 some years, 2 + packs a day

28. Yes, treadmill and barbells.

29. No opinion

30. Not to my knowledge

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1. : Tina Riel,1961,F
2. : Texas
3. : Asthma then E
4. : 38yo
5. : 30
6. : Asthma not controllled
7. : Yes
8. : ABG,PFt's all of them
9. : Pulmo dr,NO MISDiagnosed with alpha 1
10. : No
11. : advair 500/50,Spiriva,albuterol as rescue
12. : combivent,,asthmacort
13. : theophlyine 300mg 2xday,singulair 10 mg 1day
14. : none
15. : klonipin 1 mg as needed anxiety,
16:
17. : pulmo rehab last yr awesome program
18. : xopenox,horriable racing heart when albuterol is used
19. : yes.2 lpm most of the time at home not when i'm out but have portable if needed when out
20: any sudden extreme temp changes and humidity,mold allergies
21. : no
22. : not yet.haven't applied
23. : HMO yes but I can't pay what ins doesn't pay
24. : am due to be on the list in aug,not sure I'm going to thou
25. : Yes,e-mail anytime
26:
27. : Yes Just quit dec 31st 2005.
28. : Not as much as I should I'm not real motivated because of depression
29. : Leviquin
30. : Yes repeatedly

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1. : Marlee Ritchie 1941 F
2. : CA marlee@accessbee.com
3. : Emphysema
4. : 55
5. : 50
6. : Finally had medical insurance and could go.
7. : Yes
8. : Walking, chemical stress test
9. : The walking was conducted by a DR. the other by a nurse. And, no I
think I was kind of sluffed off.
10. : no
11. : Albuterolx4hrs., Atroventx4hrs./QVar/x2 day
12. : all have been effective
13. : none
14. : n/a
15. : no. I was on Wellbutrin for a while.
16: When I was on Paxil I got agitated.
17. : The only type available is a 12 wk course in another town during the day.
18. : Yes. Albuterol & Atrovent.
19. : no
20: Yes, yes and yes. I am having a lot of cramping all over my body which wakes me up at night. Especially feet and legs but also rib cage and hands. Even the tongue.
21. : Yes. Full time
22. : no
23. : Yes. Yes.
24. : no
25. : yes. anytime by email and I will respond.
26: I have an overwhelming feeling of sadness of how much I am missing because of this crummy disease.
27. : Former
28. : no
29. : Doxicillin. I am allergic to nearly everything else.
30. : no

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1.Ronald (Ron) Riddle,born 1940,m
2.Florida,   RRi9096589@aol.com
2a. No
3. Emphysema
4. 47
5. 45 Kind of came on me gradually
6. Severe shortness of breath while mowing grass-
7. No
8. X-Ray and blowing into a throw-away cardboard cylinder.
    Also bloodwork
9. Techs did the tests and I did not understand my condition. I can't remember but exactly but I do know I spent only a few minutes with him
10, No
11. Atrovent and Azmacort 2 puffs 4xdaily
12. They both seem to work OK
13. Theodur 300mgs x2       600 mgs daily
14. Seems to works ok
15. Serzone 450 mgs daily and Clonipin
16. None
17. No rehab or exercises were suggested- not even mentioned until Jan 97
18. Nebulizer with albuterol mixed with saline 4xdaily
19 Concentrator and Liquid O2      2ltrs continually up to 4 ltrs while exercising
20 Trouble sleeping 2-3 nights a week
21 No
22 Disability
23 Medicare w/ Tricare Standard as a supplement
24 No but I'm keeping it as an option
25 Yes- Anytime by E-Mail
26. I consider myself fortunate to be a member of this group. I may not have much to offer except support but I sure do have a lot to gain
27. Former Smoker
28. Yes at least 20 minutes on my treadmill and also use light weights
29. The MOST effective antibotic I have taken is LEVOFLOXACIN  500 mg at one tablet a day for 10 days.

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1. C. Frank Riggan 1938 Male

2. North Carolina frbnrig@juno.com

3. No

4. 55

5. 54

6. shortness of breath, most noticeable inability to climb stairs

7. No

8. PLF

9. An aide in the HMO Clinic, not really, was told that Atrovent should solve my problems

10. No

11.Salbutamol 100 mcg -as needed Advair disc 500McG twice daily

12. Atrovent

13. Theo-24 400MG one/day accolate 20 MG 2/day

14. N/A

15. Yes Paxil 20MG one/day

16. Prednisone Nervousness, sleeplessness, weight gain, depression, fear, generally a complete change in personality and physical appearance

17. Pulmonary re-hab was recommended and prescribed in 1998 when I moved to my present address & changed Doctors

18. yes - Albuterol Sulfate .083% Solution

19. No

20. Yes, intolerance to heat and cold plus sleeplessness

21. No

22. Full disability

23. Medicare plus private supplemental policy

24. No

25. any time of day or night by e mail

26. I exercise 3 times per week at the local YMCA using a program worked out between the director of the Re Hab Group that I attended and the Physical Director at the YMCA. I struggle with inclines and stairs, avoided them if at all possible. My feelings and physical strength are directly associated with amount of rest (sleep) I obtain. Cannot live without all of the above medications, my wife is very supportive, neither could I live without her.

27. Yes, former

28. Yes

29. Cephalexin

30. No

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1. : Dorothy Riggle, 1937, female
2. : Indiana driggle@indiana.edu
3. : Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis & Emphysema
4. : 44
5. : 42
6. : Chest pain
7. : Not initially--when unable to diagnose, I went to Mayo Clinic
8. : stress test, halter monitor, echocardiagram, cardiac cath, esophageal tests, finally, pulmonary function
9. : Internist--no, not until I saw a pulmonologist at Mayo who explained my condition
10. : No
11. : Rescue Inhaler: Albuterol, Nebulizer--Xoponex;
12. : Pulmicort has no effect, allergic to Atrovent (Soy), Serevent causes cardiac arythmia
13. : Cozaar, 50 mg; Aciphex; Guiafinessin; Singulair; Synthroid, .075; currently on short-term course of Prednisone--began w/50 mg., declining dosage every 2 days
14. : Accolate, Zyrtec, Had Chemical Reaction to Prevacid & Nexium
15. : Am on Xanax when on prednisone, 1/2 .25 mg x3
16. : Atrovent made breathing worse
Prevacid and Nexium caused severe muscular pain
Tenormin caused wheezing
Norvasc caused swelling in legs & ankles
Serevent, albuterol, prednisone cause rapid heartbeat and arythmia
17. : Am in pulmonary rehab; have a schedule of exercises using bands prescribed by the transplant center.
18. : Yes--both at home and Omron portable. Xoponex
19. : Yes--2L, 24/7
20. : Problems are the same as most people experience with Emphysema. I'm very affected by air pressure--can tell when I wake up if there's been a drop in pressure.
21. : Employed full-time.
22. : No.
23. : Both private (Anthem) and Medicare. As long as I continue working full-time, my coverage is sufficient.
24. : I'm on the lung transplant list at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis.
25. : Yes.
26. : Information I've received from EFFORTS has been extremely helpful--I look forward to my Digests, but wish it were easier to contribute.
27. : Yes--I smoked heavily (2.5 pks/day) until I quit 18 years ago.
28. : Yes--treadmill, weights, stretching
29. : Levaquin is the best I can take now. Keflex was most effective until I developed an allergy to it.
30. : Yes

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1. : Charlie Riley, 1947, male
2. : Florida, selrach_us@yahoo.com
3. : Emphysema
4. : 57
5. : 45
6. : severe Respiratory difficulties after colds
7. : yes
8. : pulmonary function test- cat scan
9. : not yet, but after net research know more questions to ask
10. : no
11. : advair 500/50 bid & combivent every six hours
12. : albuteral- did have short term effect
13. : none
14. : tablet steroids- made me very lethargic
15. : no
16. : no
17. : none
18. : no
19. : no
20. : intolerance to cold- but I also have hypothyroidism
21. : retired
22. : no
23. : Hmo- Aetna no
24. : no
25. : yes 8-1:00 Eastern standard time
26. : Had a bout with pnemonia about a month ago. Have quit smoking on 6/4/2004. Made a large difference in frequency in shortness of breath episodes and ability to do physical work- No progress of pulmonary function test over the last month but probably benefitted from the elimination of carbon monoxide
27. : yes forty years 3-4 packs per day over last 20 yrs
28. : no
29. : new drug 10 day routine cannot remember name,
30. : no, but mother had it within 20 years 1pk per day

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1. : Donna Riley, 1932, F
2. : Oregon, donnar46@comcast.net
3. : Emphysema, Asthma
4. : 69
5. : 69
6. : Shortness of breath
7. : no
8. : xray, PFT
9. : lab personnel, no
10. : no
11. : Albuterol, 2 P every 4 hrs, Serevent , 1 dose every 12 hours, Qvar,
3 p, 2 times a day, Spiriva, 1 dose a day
12. : none
13. : no oral medicines for COPD
14. : n/a
15. : no
16: none
17. : no
18. : no
19. : yes, 24/7
20: cold and humidity
21. : no
22. : no
23. : HMO, yes
24. : no
25. : yes
26:
27. : Former
28. : recumbent bike
29. : Azithromycin
30. : no

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1. Esther Ripple*, 1930, female
2. Wisconsin, eripple@worldnet.att.net
3.Asthma and Emphysema
4.50
5. 60
6. Pneumonia
7. No
8.ABG and Stress Test
9.My Doctor, No
10. No
11.Albuterol as needed. Atrovent 2 puffs 4 times a day. Serevent 2puffs,
twice a day, Flovent 220 1 puff 2 times a day.
12 None
13. Theophyline 200 mgs 2 times per day
14. Theophyline only one used.
15.No
16 No
17 No
18 No
19.Yes For Exercising
20. Sob with extreme cold or high humidity
21.No
22. No
23. Yes Suppliment and Medicare. Yes
24.No, Do not qualify, Too old for transplant (69) and had Lung Surgery
at age 21.
25. Yes eripple@worldnet.att.net
26. I had TB at age 21 and had a small section of 1 Lobe removed. This
disqualifies me for LVRS
I lost my husband 2 years ago and do not have a caregiver so makes
it hard to me to get to places to participate in studies etc.
27.Former. Quit 20 years ago. I quit when I learned I had E. My progression
has been attributed to passive smoke.
28. Yes
29. Biaxin
30.No

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1. : robeson,lori,1964,female
2. : texas- lrobeson03@yahoo.com
3. : asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema
4. : 37
5. : 37
6. : collapsed lung
7. : no
8. : surgery
9. : surgon
10. : no
11. : albuteral every 4 hrs.
12. : haven't taken any others
13. : prednisone 5 mg
14. : singulair
15. : no
16: no
17. : no
18. : duo-neb 4 times a day
19. : no
20: intolerance to heat, sleeplessness, intolerance to humidity
21. : part-time
22. : no
23. : private insurance, yes
24. : no
25. : anytime
26:
27. : yes
28. : yes
29. : most all work for me as of now
30. : yes-negative

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1. Jeanie Robins 1947 Female
2. Arlington, Texas
    jeanietx@SWBELL.NET
2a. No, I'm not a care giver
3. Emphysema
4. Diagnosed in 1992
5. Symtoms began in 1992
6. My first visit was prompted because I got sick with bronchitis
along with shortness of breath.   When I got well the shortness
of breath remained.
7. Yes, I was referred to a pulmonoligist.
8. Spirometry, blood gas, don't remember all of them.
9. The pulmonary lab supervisor directed the tests and yes I
was given plenty of information.
10. No, I was not tested for the effectiveness for any of the
medicines.
11. Flovent (2 puffs every 12 hours), and Mucomyst-10 (3 ml every
12 hours).    When I'm away from the house I use Albuterol Inhaler (4 puffs every 4 hours), Atrovent (4 puffs every 4 hours) and Vanceril (4puffs every 4 hours), Beconase (2 puffs in each nostril-twice a day).
12. These are the only ones I've ever been on.
13. The type of oral medicines I am on are:
      1) Naproxen, 375 mg, 1 twice a day
      2) Amitriptyline, 25 mg, 1 once a day
      3) Zolpidem,5 mg, 1 once a day
      4) Citalopram, 20 mg, 1 once a day
      5) Amlodipine, 10 mg, 1 once a day
      6) Predisone, 5 mg, 1 once a day
      7) Theophylline, 300 mg, 1 once a day
      8) Bupropion, 150 mg, 2 twice a day
14. I have found all my oral medicines to be very effective.
15. The Bupropion is a anti-depressant, 150 mg, 2 twice a day.
16. I've had no reactions to any medication I've taken so far.
17. Rehab was never suggested.
18. Thru the Pulmo-Aide machine, Albuterol (1 bullet every 4 hours),   Atrovent (1 bullet every 4 hours), Mucomyst (3 ml twice
a day)
19. As for oxygen I have 2 concentrators in my home and The "E" size oxygen tank in my car.
20. I'm having intolerance to heat problems and incontinence problems.
21. I am not employed.
22. I am on permanant disibility due to my illness.
23. I have private insurance and I feel it is very sufficient.
24. Lung reduction and transplant has been discussed with my physician.
25. I am available for any question from anyone anywhere.
26. I have no personal observations or remarks.
27. Even though I have greatly curbed the number of cigarettes I smoke per day, I have to say yes I do still smoke. I keep trying
to stop.
28. My exercising is extremely limited because the only time I'm not out of breath is when I'm sitting still.
29. I don't remember what the most effective antibiotic is that
I've ever taken. Can't really say there is much of a difference between one or the other.
30. I've never been tested for Alpha 1 emphysema.

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1 Elaine M. Robinson-F-1942
2 Pa.   robnnsonrw@earthlink.net
2a no
3 Very severe Emphysema
4 56
5 51
6 Very short of breath
7 No
8 PFT and xray
9 RN RRT yes
10 No
11 combivent 2 puffs 4 x day
     azmacort 2 puffs 2 x day
     serevent    2 puffs 2 x day
12 N/A
13 Uniphyl 400mg 1 tab daily
     Quaifenesin La 600 mg 2tab 2 x day
14 N/A
15 No
16 No
17 Hospital Pulmonary Rehabilitation 3xweek 2 1/2 hour half that each class was education about the lung disease the other half time was exercise with continuous ekg and heart rate monitoring blood pressure checks and plus oximetry (oxygen monitor) for 8 weeks after that pulmonary maintenance 1 or 2 x a week.
18 yes albuterol 0.083% & ipratropium bromide 0.02%
19 yes 24 hours a day 3Lpm at rest 4 or 5Lpm movement or exercise
20 sleeplessness, wind very cold, very hot.
21 No
22 Full disability
23 Yes- No
24 No
25 Yes but i do not think I could be of much help.
26 Dr suggested to think about calling to get an appointment to be evaluated for LVRS or Transplant. I have not done it as I am afraid and not sure I am anytime soon at this time
27 former
28 some
29 Augmentin
30 No

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1. : Diane Roderick, 1936, female
2. : Ma, dotengirl@aol.com
3. : Emphysema
4. : 55
5. : 53
6. :
7. : yes
8. :
9. :
10. :
11. : Advair, Albuterol
12. :
13. : Accolate, Thyophyline
14. :
15. :
16. :
17. :
18. : no
19. : no
20. : no
21. : no
22. : no
23. : medicare
24. : no
25. : yes
26. :
27. : former
28. : occasionally
29. :
30. : no

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1. Donna Rogers, 1940, Female
2. Nebraska, Jean58@aol.com
3. Emphysema
4. 58
5. 38
6. A nurse I was cleaning house for asked me how long I had, had emphysema. Suggested I go to Dr.   I did. 1979
7. In 1999 I was in hospital with pnemonia and a pulmonoly Dr was called in for me.
8. Cat Scan, he thought I had a spot on my lung. But in Oct of 1998 was told I had COPD by regular Dr. but no tests were ever done except an X-ray
and blood gases.
9. Just the two Drs. I mentioned, no not really.
10. no
11. Serevent 2 puffs 2x daily. Breathing treatment w/ Albuterol&Bromide treatment 4 x daily.
12.I don't know as I have never went without any of them.
13. Furosemide 40mg 1x-Verelan 240mg1x .-Potassium 10meq 2x-Theo 300mg2x- Wellbutrin 150mg2x.
14.?
15. Just the wellbutrin but that is to quit smoking.
16. Predizone, do not remember dosage as last time I needed something because my sputuem was brown, I ask if I could have an antibiotic and not
the predizone and got it.
17. Wednesday before Thanksgiving 1999 finished with 10 weeks of rehab. bike, treadmill, and mylar.
18. Yes albuterol and bromide
19. I have been on oxygen since Oct 1989. 24/7 was 4 literes now 3.
20. Sleeplessness
21. Have not worked since 6/28/99 when I had pnemonia. Was working 12 hours a day at the time I got sick.
22. Full disability.
23. Right now I am covered my work insurance, and drawing short term disability, then in Jan I guess I go on long term , and I have already
signed up for Disability Social Security.
24. no.
25. Yes, I am here at all times of the day and night. E-Mail
26.   I do not know that much about COPD because when Dr. was telling me about capacity of my lung, I really just went blank and do not really know
what he said. But will definitely find out more when I go again now that I
have my senses about me.
27. Smoker for 45 years.
28   Yes
29.   I have only had it once and they gave me an antibotic of some kind, do not remember what it was.
30. No
     May I just add EFFORTS has been a life saver for me, because I see more than myself, feels the same way I do, and they are all a great bunch of FAMILY.

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1. Sallie Rodgers, 1945, F
2. Florida = Karen49634@aol.com
3. No
4. 45
5. 43
6. Cronic broncitis
7. 1990
8. PFT - treadmill
9. pulmonist - yes
10. No
11. Serevent, pulmacort 200 mg, ventolin
12. Azmacort
13. Theodur24 400mg, prednisone 7 1/2mg, paxil 10mg valium 2 1/2 mg, restoral 30 mg.
14. Don't know
15. Yes - paxil 10 mg, valium 2 1/2 mg
16. yes - singulair - throat closed up was put in hospital for 1 week.
17. no, no
18. yes. albuterol/atrovent
19. yes, 2 lts per minute at night
20. sleeplessness
21. no
22. full
23. medicare HMO - yes
24. lung transplant list-Jackson Memorial
25. yes - email only
26. none at this time
27. former
28. no
29. zithromax
30. yes

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1. : Barbara San Roman 10/02/36 F
2. : Phoenix, Arizona
3. : Chronic Bronchitis,Emphysema
4. : 50
5. : 50
6. : shortness of breath
7. : No
8. : chiest X-Ray
9. : No
10. : No
11. : combient 3 puffs 6times a day-advair 2puffs a day
12. :
13. : singular 10MG ,Theophylline 300MG
14. : spirvia
15. : Lorazepam 1MG when needed
16: no only antibiotics
17. : none,I still smoke
18. : DuoNeb
19. : no
20: Depression,heat and cold
21. : no
22. : full
23. : private,yes
24. : no
25. : yes,any and by e-mail
26: I also have other medical problems
27. : yes
28. : very little
29. : Baxin XL,I am very allergic to antibiotic's
30. : no,

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1. : Jean M. Rommes, 1944, F
2. : Iowa, jmrommes@mchsi.com
3. : Emphysema, asthma
4. : 55
5. : 40
6. : SOB
7. : not initially, only later at my request
8. : PFT
9. : Respiratory therapist, eventually got the information
10. : no
11. : combivent, 2 puffs before exercise (2X daily); pulmicort turbohaler 1 puff 2X daily, albuterol for rescue
12. : I took something before the Pulmicort, but coughed constantly, so switched to pulmicort---don't remember what it was
13. : nothing for COPD
14. :
15. : No
16: just the coughing I experienced above
17. : No; started my own exercise program at home
18. : I have two nebulizers, one portable, have albuterol to use, but don't use it at all now; since exercise and weight loss, don't need it
19. : no
20:
21. : Full-time
22. : No
23. : insurance through employer; sufficient
24. : No
25. : any time by e-mail
26: Exercise, exercise, exercise! We need to do more and encourage docs to really push it with their patients
27. : Yes, for 30 years; quite 13 years ago
28. : yes! twice a day for 45 minutes: it's the best thing I ever did!
Lost weight, put the C-PAP in the closet, for off O2 entirely, reduced meds for diabetes, lost 100 pounds, got a new wardrobe!
29. : Z packs usually work well
30. : No

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1. : JACK RONALD 1947 MALE
2. : OHIO
3. : EMPHYSEMA
4. : 48
5. : 2001
6. : SOB
7. : YES
8. : A LOT
9. : MD YES
10. : NO
11. : COMBIVENT 4 TIMES A DAY
12. : VENTOLIN
13. : PREDNISONE THEOPHYLLIN 200CARDIZEM LASIX
14. : XX
15. : NO
16: NO
17. : NO
18. : DuoNeb formoterol
19. : 24/7
20: no
21. : no
22. : full RETIRED
23. : HMO
24. : NO
25. : jlr506@aol.com
26:
27. : FORMER
28. : NO
29. : UN KNOWEN
30. : NO

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1. Toni Rowlan-F-1947
2. Oregon, trowlan@dswebnet.com
3. Chronic Steroid dependent Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis, MCS severe, mild mid lobe right side Atelectasis, Sleep Apnea.
4. Asthma diagnosed about age 19 years. COPD at about age 40 years.
5. SOB was first problem. Age 19
6. SOB
7. No not until I reached my 40's
8. PFTs, X-rays, CT scans,
9. The last tests were done by Pulmonary Drs. and no I don't really think I was given adequate information on my conditions. I've learned from group to
be more assertive and to ask questions and get copies of my reports so I could check on them my self. This way I learn more.
10. No never pretested
11. Albuterol two puffs every 4 hours or as needed, Combivent 2 puffs every four hours, Serevent two puffs two x a day, Flovent 4 puffs two times a day.
12. Least affective, hmmm must have been the Intal inhaler.
13. Oral medications are as follows. Prednisone 30 mg maintenance with bursts as needed up to 60 then 50 then 40 then 30 and stay there. Accolate 2 x day, Suprax antibiotic as maintenance, been on for two years. Cipro for infections out of control of Suprax, on Raxar now 400 mg 1xday for infection. Guaifenex LA 600 mg. two caps 2xday. to loosen phlegm. Vitamin D
1.25 mg 1 x week for bone loss to help bind calcium. Xanax 00.5 mg 1/2 am &1 PM. Zoloft 100 mg. 1/2 a.m. 1 p.m. Celexa 1 tab day. Pepcid 40 mg two times day. Theophilyn 200 mg. two x day. Lasix 40 mg 1 to 2 a day as needed, 1 potassium per 40 mg of lasix. Migratine as needed for migraines. Premarin 00.625 per day. Ambien for sleep. Darvon for pain w/ two Tylenol. as needed
three X's day. Nystatin for candida as needed.
14. I can't remember the ones I took in the past, the above I am on now and have been for a long time.
15. Yes both see above.
16. I have many side effects from meds. many from the pred. and tremors and stomach problems and insomnia from the Theo.
17. No rehab suggested, just light walking as tolerated and told to take 3 to 4 naps a day, no able to do that. Had total knee replacement so can't walk on uneven ground or over do with that.
18. Use nebulizer when needed with Atrovent and Proventil.
19. No o2
20. Certain type of heat bothers me, oddly enough I do pretty well in very high humid high heat areas, like North C. and VA on the coast areas. And do well in Hawaii. Once I get cold I'm done in. Have trouble with incontinence, Sleeplessness, extreme Depression, Panic attacks and Anxiety attacks pretty well controlled with the zoloft, xanax, and Celexa.
21. Been on full disability for two years almost three after almost three year battle with SSA.
23. Medicare A & B plus my HMO. so far coverage is excellent however I just signed up for the part B and I have no idea if my HMO will cancel me or not for my RX's.
24. No
25. I'm always available to help anyone with questions if I can answer them or direct them. I am not a professional by any means but I have acquired some knowledge.
26. none
27. Quit smoking about 27 years ago.
28. When I can I walk a little with my dogs, hope to be able to ride my horse this summer, always have that hope, who knows maybe???? like to play in plants, only able to for a few minutes at a time but like it alot. 29. I think the Suprax was the best for me until the last year as I've been on it steady for three + years and it's losing it's clout for me.
30. Yes was tested for alpha and it was negative.

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1. : Jim Rowley* 1936   ,M
2. : Okla. jim73071@sbcglobal.net
3. : Mainly E but some of all
4. : C.B in my 40's and COPD in mid 50's
5. : slowed down in mid 40's
6. : had major problem breathing
7. : Yes
8. : X-ray, PFT
9. : My pulmonogist      Yes
10. : No
11. : Foradil BID Flovent 250 BID Atrovent TID
12. : Serevent
13. : Singulair 10 mg Prednisone 5 mg
14. : Accolate
15. : .5 lorazapam(generic Ativan)
16. :
17. : Yes Been to Pulmonary Rehab twice
18. : Not at present
19. : Yes 24/7 at 2&1/4 lpm
20. : intolerant to high humidity and temperature extremes
21. : No
22. :
23. : Medicare plus Medagap   No
24. : No
25. : Yes-email is best
26. :
27. : Former
28. : Yes
29. : Z-pak
30. : no

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1. : Rachael Rusholme 1988 female
2. : UK rachaelrocks@btopenworld.com
3. : Chronic Bronchitis
4. : 15
5. : 14
6. : was taken to hospital
7. : yes
8. : CTscan, lung diffusion test & lung biopsy
9. : Pulmonologist, no
10. : no
11. : Spiriva
12. :
13. : Prednisolone 40mg a day
14. :
15. :
16. :
17. : no
18. : yes & salbutamol & atrovent
19. : yes 4ltrs all the time
20. : cold weather is a huge problem, so many infections & yes I dont sleep much
21. : student part-time
22. : full
23. : no
24. : possible lung transplant
25. : yes email any time
26. :
27. : never
28. : no
29. : IV antibiotics
30. : no

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