Hello I am a 41 year old ex-smoker. I recently had a chest xray because I had been feeling fatigued after running (I run approx. 3.5 miles 3 x a week. I have also trained and run a marathon).I received these results:"The Lungs appear somewhat hyperaerated aerated, suggesting that there may be developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. There are no infiltrates or nodules"I have made an appointment to have a consult with a specialist who will probably perform a PFT.My question is this, Should I be overly concerned?Should I stop Running?Is this Degenerative?Thank You
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern.First no need to worry much for this chest x-ray report. Hyperaereted lungs on chest x-ray can be seen with normal individuals. This does not diagnose COPD (chronic obstructive Pulmonary disease).PUT (Pulmonary Function Test) is must for the diagnosis of COPD. Since you are non-smoker, possibility of COPD is less likely. So don't be so concerned about this. Continue with your running. Get done PFT. If this is normal then no need to worry about degenerative disease. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.