Bryan lives in Colorado and was diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) years ago, resulting in him needing to leave his job and go on disability due to the impact of his disease. Carolyn lives across the country in Maryland and had lived with her COPD for years, initially with minimal impact on her daily life until she had a serious illness that left her using continuous supplemental oxygen. Despite living over a thousand miles apart, Bryan and Carolyn shared some common traits that are familiar to many people living with advanced COPD. They both recall having a decline in their ability to participate in daily living activities. Shortness of breath and decreased energy played a role in their ability to do things that they used to enjoy. Even walking a short distance became a chore. Then they learned about an innovative treatment that is recommended for some people who are living with advanced emphysema or COPD that is called endobronchial valve treatment (EBV).
How did you learn about this treatment option?
Carolyn: I heard about the procedure from my lung specialist. He ordered the tests I needed to see if the procedure was right for me. I did my own homework as well and knew what tests I would need, and this was helpful because I could advocate for myself when I was going through the tests leading up to having the treatment done.
Bryan: My wife did research and really was the one that advocated for me with my healthcare team to see if it would be a treatment option for me. After bringing this up with my doctor, I was then referred to a specialist that does the procedure.
What is EBV?
How did you prepare for the procedure?
Carolyn and Bryan: We both understood that we had to go through a series of tests to see if we were a candidate for the procedure. Our healthcare providers were very upfront about the risks, and we did our own research to make sure we fully understood what the procedure involved. It also was important to stay as active as possible leading up to the procedure, walking and doing chair exercises so that we went into the procedure as fit as possible.
How did the procedure go?
Carolyn: I had a total of eight valves placed. I was in the hospital for three days for recovery. They got me up and walking right away and monitored me during this time. There were no surprises because I felt well prepared for what was going to happen during and after the treatment.
Bryan: I had six valves placed and did end up having one of the possible side effects, a collapsed lung, so my total time in the hospital was a little longer. After I was home, it was only a few weeks before I started noticing a difference due to the procedure.
What kind of impact did this have on your life?
Bryan: I can get up and walk around. I can walk further than I was able to prior to the treatment. I can participate in daily activities with greater ease. I continue to do chair exercises with weights as well because I think it is important to stay active and keep my strength up.
Carolyn: The valves really changed my quality of life. I can walk without feeling like my chest is going to burst. I walk a mile every day! I usually walk in stores or strip malls, so I get out and talk to people. I have enough energy to go to my bible study, too. My life has changed!
What would you tell someone who may benefit from EBVs?
Carolyn: Do your research. Arm yourself with knowledge. Find out what you can about the tests required to see if you qualify and what the procedure entails. Talk to a specialist to find out if it is right for you.
Bryan: I would recommend not putting it off. If it is right for you, don’t wait to have this done. Talk to an expert. It’s worth it!
Steps you can take if you believe you may be eligible for EBV treatment.
- Speak with your healthcare provider.
- Get a referral to a provider trained in this procedure.
- Get tested to find out if you are a good candidate.
- Quit smoking. An individual needs to be non-smoking or willing to quit for this treatment. The Lung Association offers Freedom From Smoking to assist tobacco users who are ready to quit.
- Follow up with your insurance to understand your coverage for this treatment.
Learn more at Lung.org or call the Lung HelpLine (800-LUNGUSA).
Blog last updated: November 20, 2024
