8 years ago I was diagnosed with a rare congenital heart defect called Scimitar Syndrome. I had 3 open heart surgeries to repair the defect. Once it was repaired I was still experiencing shortness of breath with further testing it was discovered I had Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension . I was placed on medication and felt better however I still felt as if I couldn't take a deep breath, it felt as if it stopped short. I discussed it with my PH cardiologist and he sent me to Pulmonologist . I underwent more testing with pulmonology and it was discovered I had Obstructed Lung Disease. Obstructive lung disease makes me feel as if I'm always short of breath even though my O2 levels are fairly stable. I feel SOB, chest pressure and as if I'm gasping for air mostly when I'm active. I have several other medical conditions however my lung disease is the hardest to accept and live with. Who wants to constantly feel as if they can't catch their breath or take deep breaths!! I do use supplemental oxygen for sleep, flying and when I'm in high altitude. I don't know for sure where my lung diseases originated did I get PAH and Obstructive lung disease from my CHD or Scleroderma (which I was later diagnosed with) ? I don't know and it's a medical debate kinda like which came first the chicken or the egg. I just try and make the best of my situation and try and keep active.
