I haven't smoked in nearly 30 years but, have developed COPD. I use the inhailer as needed and do 2 nebulizer treatment everyday. I also use ADVAIR 250/50 1X a day.
I irrigate my nostrils with salt water 2x a day and try to keep the airways clear. I'm 53 and have 87% lung capacity. It is only going to get worse and eventually kill me but, hey I could get hit with a truck tomorrow or, die another way. I refuse to let this get me down. My Doctor says maybe 15 years or longer, depends on how I take care of myself. I am going to fight this with everything in me.

My cousin died at 49 last week, he had brain cancer. I never heard him complain. he was a good man but, he had a lousey wife. She left him when he was dx with it. Said she didn't want to be living with a dying man.

I can retire in 6 1/2 years and that is what I will do. I'm going to live life to the fullest and do as much as I can. The best advice I can give you is to exersize everyday and quit smoking. If I have to drag around an oxygen tank then so be it but, I will not let this condition keep me from living life to the fullest.

We are all going to die, it is just a matter of how and when, at least i know how barring an unexpected event.

Eric