I've been inhaling on the spirometer that was given to me last month and I can't get it to what the nurse said it should be. I can get it up to 1750, but it is supposed to be around 2000. Also, I've really struggled with quitting smoking, making it for two days in a row, then relapsing and having start over. Today is a startover day...again. My surgery is one week from today. I really don't want to damage my recovery period with lung issues, so can anyone enlighten me as to whether you had no problems post-op or if you had problems, what they were and how you handled it?

Anything at all you think would be helpful is appreciated. I'm pretty stressed out about it.

Hi

Four years ago, I ws hospitalized with Legionaire's Disease and was also a very long time smoker. It really did a number on my lungs. I had my surgery 7-16 in Mexico and they did a breathing test on me./ They said I only had 61% lung capacity so they gave me an Albuteral treatment before and then again after the surgery. So, I don't think you would have a problem unless you have less lung capacity. I didn't have any problems.

I too am struggling with the smoking issue. My date is November 9 and the surgeon and I made an agreement that I would quite approx. 4 weeks prior to surgery. Well, like you, I quit for 3 days, smoke for 1 day, quit again etc... Today is day 2 of quitting for the 3rd time since October 15. Plus, I had the sleep study done last nite and the technician said "he's not a doctor" but he is pretty sure I have sleep apnea. (Stopped breathing almost every 15 seconds). So, I feel for you!!! I am going to request albuterol therapy before and after the operation just as kirajh did. Smoking can complicate anesthesia and that scares me the most. I know you can do it for this week!! Good luck to you and keep us posted!!!

:mad::girl_hug:

Maria

There is a new medication that helps people stop smoking.. it is a 3 month therapy,... I have a friend who started it less then a week ago and she, within 24 hours, could not stand the taste of a cigarette.

Good luck!

It's called Chantix and I would say 99% of my patients on it have quit...

I'm in the 1 percentile - really didn't do much for me. I'm lying - maybe, just a little bit - I waited a little longer between cigs. My Mom quit completely with Chantix so I know it does work - it's definately worth a shot.

Maria

Thanks, y'all. I'm still struggling, but working that spirometer like crazy. Last night i got it over 2000, so I'm beginning to feel more confident that collapsed lungs won't be an issue.

My doctor told me that the number on the spirometer wasn't that important, it just that they want you pushing a consistant amount of air through your lungs. I had a breathing treatment before and after surgery and everything was OK. I also quit smoking a year ago using Chantix and I have asthma. Since my surgery I haven't had to use my inhaler. I had my surgery on the 18th of October and I have lost 22 lbs. My first fill is 11/25/07