I am in the UK and have been treated for asthma my whole life. I got a severe infection which lead to a hospital visit. There I had a MRI scan and a number of other tests on my lung function. My consultant told me that Xrays were next to useless for diagnosing COPD. He diagnosed COPD and now I take 2 dry powder inhalers, phyllocontin tablets and Montelukast tablets every day. I also have an electric nebuliser which I use with Ventolin fluid for the rare occasions when the daily meds do not prevent a problem. This regime allows me to function almost normally for a 75 year old man. If your doctor does not treat you adequately get a different one. It is your life being curtailed if your COPD isn't controlled.

If the waiting list is long the sooner you are on it the better. If my GP treated me like this I would change, and quickly! COPD is an incurable and progressive disease. Early treatment can prolong the time you can function nearly normally. At 75 I lead a nearly normal life only because I have seen the right specialist and take the right medication every day. Plus, of course, careful attention to the weather, mild exercise and a loving family!

Thank you I'm getting the message here and I'll get myself on the list. There is only one specialist here so the list is long

You might have to push your family dr to get you in to see a lung dr

You could just go find a pulmonologist and get a appointment,. You may have to wait 3 months. Good luck and breathe easy.