What are the main causes of emphysema. How is emphysema diagnosed and treated. What are the symptoms of pulmonary emphysema. Can emphysema be reversed or cured.

Understanding Pulmonary Emphysema: A Chronic Lung Condition

Pulmonary emphysema is a chronic lung condition characterized by damage to the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs. This damage can manifest in various ways, including:

• Collapse of air sacs
• Destruction of lung tissue
• Narrowing of airways
• Overinflation of air sacs
• Stretching of lung tissue

The primary mechanism of emphysema involves the breakdown of alveoli walls, leading to overinflation of the air sacs. This results in decreased respiratory function and breathlessness. Unfortunately, the damage to air sacs is irreversible, causing permanent holes in the lower lung tissue.

Is emphysema a form of COPD. Yes, pulmonary emphysema is classified as a type of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). COPD is an umbrella term for lung diseases that cause airflow blockage and breathing problems. The two most common conditions under COPD are chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Primary Causes of Pulmonary Emphysema: From Smoking to Genetic Factors

Pulmonary emphysema develops gradually over time, often due to long-term exposure to harmful substances. The primary causes include:

1. Smoking: This is the leading cause of emphysema, responsible for the majority of cases.
2. Air pollution exposure: Chemical fumes, dust, and other airborne substances can contribute to the development of emphysema.
3. Occupational hazards: Exposure to irritating fumes and dusts in the workplace can increase the risk of emphysema.
4. Genetic factors: A rare, inherited form of the disease called alpha 1-antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency-related pulmonary emphysema or early onset pulmonary emphysema can cause the condition.

How does smoking cause emphysema. Smoking damages the delicate structures of the lungs by introducing harmful chemicals and particles. These substances cause inflammation and destruction of lung tissue over time, leading to the characteristic air sac damage seen in emphysema.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Pulmonary Emphysema

The symptoms of pulmonary emphysema can vary from person to person, but generally include:

Early Symptoms:

• Persistent cough
• Rapid breathing
• Shortness of breath, which worsens with activity
• Sputum production
• Wheezing

Advanced Symptoms:

• Anxiety and depression
• Extreme fatigue
• Heart problems
• Over-inflation of the lungs
• Sleep disturbances
• Unintended weight loss

Why does shortness of breath worsen with activity in emphysema patients. As emphysema progresses, the lungs become less efficient at exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide. During physical activity, the body’s demand for oxygen increases, but the damaged lungs struggle to meet this demand, resulting in increased breathlessness.

Diagnostic Approaches for Pulmonary Emphysema

Diagnosing pulmonary emphysema involves a combination of clinical assessment and specialized tests. Healthcare providers may use the following diagnostic tools:

1. Pulmonary Function Tests

These tests measure the lungs’ ability to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. They often involve breathing into specialized machines and include:

• Spirometry: This test uses a device called a spirometer to assess lung function. It can determine the severity of lung disease, distinguish between restrictive and obstructive lung diseases, and monitor treatment effectiveness.
• Peak flow monitoring: This measures how quickly you can exhale air from your lungs, helping to assess airway narrowing.

2. Imaging Studies

• Chest X-ray: Provides images of internal tissues, bones, and organs.
• CT scan: Offers detailed images of the airways, showing their width and wall thickness.

3. Blood Tests

These tests check the levels of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the blood, providing insights into lung function and gas exchange efficiency.

4. Sputum Culture

This test analyzes material coughed up from the lungs to check for infections.

5. ECG (Electrocardiogram)

While not directly related to lung function, an ECG can help assess heart health, which is often affected in advanced emphysema cases.

How does a CT scan help in diagnosing emphysema. A CT scan provides detailed, cross-sectional images of the lungs, allowing healthcare providers to visualize the extent of lung damage, including the size and distribution of emphysematous areas, which can be crucial for treatment planning and disease staging.

Treatment Strategies for Pulmonary Emphysema: Managing Symptoms and Slowing Progression

While there is no cure for pulmonary emphysema, various treatment options aim to manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and slow disease progression. The treatment plan may include:

1. Smoking Cessation

Quitting smoking is the most critical step in managing emphysema and preventing further lung damage.

2. Medications

• Bronchodilators: These medicines help widen the airways, improving breathing. They can be administered orally or via inhalers.
• Antibiotics: Used to treat bacterial infections that can exacerbate emphysema symptoms.
• Other medications: Various oral and inhaled medicines may be prescribed to manage specific symptoms like coughing and wheezing.

3. Pulmonary Rehabilitation

This comprehensive program includes breathing exercises to strengthen respiratory muscles and general physical exercises to improve overall fitness and lung function.

4. Oxygen Therapy

Supplemental oxygen from portable containers can help improve oxygen levels in the blood, reducing breathlessness and improving quality of life.

5. Lifestyle Modifications

• Avoiding secondhand smoke and other air pollutants
• Getting regular vaccinations, including flu and pneumococcal vaccines
• Maintaining proper nutrition to prevent malnutrition and weight loss

6. Surgical Interventions

• Lung volume reduction surgery: Removes damaged areas of the lung to improve breathing
• Lung transplantation: In severe cases, a lung transplant may be considered as a last resort

Can pulmonary rehabilitation reverse emphysema damage. While pulmonary rehabilitation cannot reverse the structural damage caused by emphysema, it can significantly improve lung function, exercise capacity, and quality of life. It helps patients better manage their symptoms and maintain their independence in daily activities.

Living with Emphysema: Coping Strategies and Lifestyle Adjustments

Managing emphysema requires a multifaceted approach that extends beyond medical treatments. Patients can improve their quality of life by adopting various coping strategies and lifestyle adjustments:

1. Breathing Techniques

Learning and practicing specific breathing techniques can help manage breathlessness and improve oxygen efficiency. These may include:

• Pursed-lip breathing
• Diaphragmatic breathing
• Coordinated breathing with activities

2. Energy Conservation

Pacing activities and using energy-saving techniques can help patients accomplish daily tasks with less breathlessness. This might involve:

• Sitting while performing tasks when possible
• Using assistive devices for household chores
• Planning activities to balance exertion and rest

3. Nutritional Support

Maintaining proper nutrition is crucial for emphysema patients. This may involve:

• Eating smaller, more frequent meals to avoid fullness that can interfere with breathing
• Focusing on nutrient-dense foods to maintain a healthy weight
• Staying hydrated to keep mucus thin and easier to clear

4. Stress Management

Chronic lung conditions can be stressful, and stress can exacerbate breathing difficulties. Stress management techniques may include:

• Mindfulness and meditation practices
• Gentle exercises like tai chi or yoga
• Engaging in hobbies and social activities

5. Environmental Modifications

Creating a lung-friendly home environment can significantly improve quality of life. This might include:

• Using air purifiers to reduce indoor air pollutants
• Maintaining optimal humidity levels to ease breathing
• Removing dust-collecting items and using hypoallergenic bedding

How can pursed-lip breathing help emphysema patients. Pursed-lip breathing helps control shortness of breath by keeping airways open longer, allowing more air to flow in and out of the lungs. This technique can reduce the work of breathing, improve ventilation, and help patients feel more in control of their breathing.

Complications and Long-term Outlook of Pulmonary Emphysema

While treatment can manage symptoms and slow progression, emphysema can lead to various complications and have long-term impacts on health:

Potential Complications:

• Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
• Bullae (large air spaces in the lungs that can rupture)
• Respiratory infections
• Heart problems, including cor pulmonale (right-sided heart failure)
• Malnutrition and weight loss
• Osteoporosis

Long-term Outlook:

The prognosis for emphysema varies depending on several factors, including:

• The stage of the disease at diagnosis
• The patient’s age and overall health
• Adherence to treatment plans
• Successful smoking cessation

While emphysema is a progressive disease, proper management can significantly slow its advancement and improve quality of life. Many patients with emphysema can live for many years with the condition, especially if diagnosed and treated early.

Does emphysema always progress to severe stages. While emphysema is generally progressive, the rate of progression can vary significantly between individuals. With proper management, including smoking cessation and adherence to treatment plans, some patients may experience very slow progression or even stabilization of their condition for extended periods.

Research and Future Directions in Emphysema Treatment

Ongoing research in pulmonary medicine continues to explore new avenues for treating emphysema and improving patients’ lives. Some promising areas of research include:

1. Stem Cell Therapy

Researchers are investigating the potential of stem cells to regenerate damaged lung tissue. While still in experimental stages, early studies have shown promising results in animal models.

2. Novel Drug Therapies

New medications targeting specific inflammatory pathways involved in emphysema progression are under development. These may offer more targeted treatment options with fewer side effects.

3. Bioengineered Lung Tissue

Scientists are working on creating bioengineered lung tissue that could potentially be used to replace damaged areas in emphysema patients.

4. Improved Lung Volume Reduction Techniques

Less invasive methods of lung volume reduction, such as bronchoscopic techniques, are being refined to offer alternatives to traditional surgery.

5. Gene Therapy

For genetic forms of emphysema, such as alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, gene therapy approaches are being explored to correct the underlying genetic defect.

6. Advanced Imaging and Diagnostic Tools

Development of more sensitive imaging techniques and biomarkers could lead to earlier diagnosis and more personalized treatment strategies.

What potential does stem cell therapy hold for emphysema treatment. Stem cell therapy holds promise for emphysema treatment by potentially regenerating damaged lung tissue and reducing inflammation. Early studies have shown that certain types of stem cells can differentiate into lung cells and promote tissue repair. However, more research is needed to determine the long-term efficacy and safety of this approach in humans.

As research progresses, the hope is that new treatments will not only better manage symptoms but potentially reverse some of the damage caused by emphysema, significantly improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Pulmonary Emphysema | Johns Hopkins Medicine

What is pulmonary emphysema?

Emphysema is a chronic lung condition in which the air sacs (alveoli) may be:

• Collapsed
• Destroyed
• Narrowed
• Overinflated
• Stretched

Overinflation of the air sacs is a result of a breakdown of the alveoli walls. It
causes a decrease in respiratory function and breathlessness. Damage to the air sacs
can’t be fixed. It causes permanent holes in the lower lung tissue.

Pulmonary emphysema is part of a group of lung diseases called COPD (chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease). COPD lung diseases cause airflow blockage and breathing
problems. The 2 most common conditions of COPD are chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

What causes pulmonary emphysema?

Pulmonary emphysema occurs very slowly over time. It’s caused by:

• Smoking (the main cause)
• Exposure to air pollution, such as chemical fumes, dust, and other substances
• Irritating fumes and dusts at work
• A rare, inherited form of the disease called alpha 1-antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency-related pulmonary emphysema or early onset pulmonary emphysema

What are the symptoms of pulmonary emphysema?

Symptoms may be slightly different for each person. The following are the most common symptoms for pulmonary emphysema.

Early symptoms of pulmonary emphysema may include:

• Cough
• Rapid breathing
• Shortness of breath, which gets worse with activity
• Sputum production
• Wheezing

Other symptoms may include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Extreme
  tiredness (fatigue)
• Heart problems
• Over-inflation of the lungs
• Sleep problems
• Weight loss

The symptoms of pulmonary emphysema may look like other lung conditions or health problems. See a healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

How is pulmonary emphysema diagnosed?

Along with a complete health history and physical exam, your healthcare provider may
request pulmonary function tests. These tests help measure the lungs’ ability to
exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. The tests are often done with special machines into
which you breathe. They may include:

Spirometry

A spirometer is a device used to check lung function. Spirometry is one of the simplest, most common tests. It may be used to:

• Determine the severity of a lung disease
• Find
  out if the lung disease is restrictive (decreased airflow) or obstructive
  (disruption of airflow)
• Look for lung disease
• See how well treatment is working

Peak flow monitoring

This device measures how fast you can blow air out of your lungs. Cough, inflammation, and mucus buildup can cause the large airways in the lungs to slowly narrow. This slows the speed of air leaving the lungs. This measurement is very important in seeing how well or how poorly the disease is being controlled.

Blood tests

These are done to check the amount of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the blood.

Chest X-ray

This test takes pictures of internal tissues, bones, and organs.

CT scan

This test uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to make images of
the body. CT can show details such as the width of airways in the lungs and the
thickness of airway walls.

Sputum culture

This test is done on the material that is coughed up from the lungs and into the mouth. A sputum culture is often used to see if an infection is present.

ECG

This is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart, shows abnormal rhythms (arrhythmias), and can help find heart muscle damage.

How is pulmonary emphysema treated?

The goal of treatment for people with pulmonary emphysema is to live more comfortably with the disease, control symptoms, and prevent the disease from getting worse, with minimal side effects. There is no way to repair or regrow the damaged lung tissue.

Treatment may include:

• A
  pulmonary rehab program. This may include breathing exercises to strengthen the
  muscles you use for breathing, and exercises for the rest of your body.
• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Staying
  away from the smoke of others and removing other air pollutants from your home and
  workplace
• Medicines (bronchodilators) that widen the airways of the lungs, and can be either
  taken by mouth (oral) or inhaled
• Getting the flu and pneumococcal vaccines
• Lung transplant
• Nutritional support since you may develop malnutrition and lose weight
• Other
  types of oral and inhaled medicines that are used to treat symptoms such as coughing
  and wheezing
• Oxygen therapy from portable containers
• Quitting smoking
• Surgery to remove the damaged area of the lung

Key points about pulmonary emphysema

• Pulmonary emphysema is a chronic lung condition. It’s often part of COPD, a group of
  lung diseases that cause airflow blockage and breathing problems.
• It
  develops very slowly over time. It’s most often caused by smoking.
• It
  causes shortness of breath that often gets worse with activity and many other
  symptoms, such as wheezing, cough, anxiety, and heart problems.
• There is
  no way to repair or regrow the damaged lung tissue. The goal of treatment for people
  with pulmonary emphysema is to live more comfortably, control symptoms, and prevent
  the disease from getting worse.
• A key
  part of treatment is to quit smoking.

Next steps

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:

• Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.
• Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
• Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your healthcare provider tells you.
• At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your healthcare provider gives you.
• Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed, and how it will help you. Also know what the side effects are.
• Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.
• Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.
• Know what to expect if you do not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
• If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
• Know how you can contact your healthcare provider if you have questions.

What is emphysema? Symptoms & treatment

When you’re healthy, you don’t really give breathing a second thought, let alone a first. Sure, it’s one of life’s essential functions, but breathing in and out is so automatic (and hardwired into our brains) that it doesn’t really give you a reason to think about it. That is, until something goes wrong, and it gets harder to take air in and out.

One condition that can make breathing a challenge is emphysema, where damage in your lungs makes it more difficult to bring oxygen into your body. It’s a serious disease that affects over 3 million people in the U.S. – it’s also one of the most preventable.

We’ll go over what emphysema is and how it relates to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We’ll also tell you the main causes, symptoms and stages of emphysema, and give you a rundown on available treatments.

What is emphysema?

Pulmonary emphysema is a long-term lung health condition that causes shortness of breath. Over time, the air sacs in the lungs, also called alveoli, become damaged. The inner walls of these air sacs weaken and rupture, which creates larger air spaces in the lungs. When this happens, the surface area of the lungs is reduced, and so is the amount of oxygen that makes it to the bloodstream.

Emphysema is a chronic illness, and it can develop slowly over time. There isn’t a way to repair or regrow the damaged lung tissue, but there are ways to treat it to live more comfortably with the disease. These treatments can also help control symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

Types of emphysema

There are several different types of emphysema that can affect different areas of the lungs, as well as the body:

• Centrilobular emphysema (CLE) – CLE is the most common type of emphysema, and it occurs in the upper sections, or lobes, of the lungs.
• Panlobular emphysema (PLE) – PLE affects the lungs as a whole but can affect the lower section of the lungs more severely.
• Paraseptal emphysema (PSE) – PSE damages the air sacs in the outermost part of the lungs, but with more severe forms of PSE, damage can occur in other parts of the lungs too.
• Bullous emphysema – This form of emphysema occurs when giant, bubble-like cavities filled with fluid or air develop in the lungs.
• Subcutaneous emphysema – This is a rarer form of emphysema, where air or gas gets under skin tissue. It commonly occurs in the chest, neck or face, but it can also develop in other areas of the body. This form of emphysema isn’t typically caused by smoking or other lung irritants but brought on by certain medical procedures or injuries to the body, among others.

What is the difference between emphysema and COPD?

First, what exactly is COPD? Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a group of lung diseases that make breathing difficult, and gradually worsens over time. COPD typically occurs in people who have a history of smoking, but it can also occur with long-term exposure to lung irritants like secondhand smoke or air pollution.

Emphysema and chronic bronchitis, where the lining of airways is constantly irritated and inflamed, are the two most common conditions that contribute to COPD. Both conditions make breathing harder, leading to shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing. People diagnosed with COPD are frequently diagnosed with both emphysema and chronic bronchitis, but they can occur separately.

What causes emphysema?

Emphysema can be caused by several things, but the four most common are:

Smoking

This is the number one cause of emphysema. Smoking destroys lung tissue and irritates airways, causing inflammation and damage that results in swollen airways, difficulty clearing airways and increased mucus production.

Long-term exposure to lung irritants

Some examples of lung irritants include air pollution, secondhand smoke and occupational lung irritants, such as coal or exhaust fumes.

Age

Emphysema is most commonly seen in people 40 years of age or older, especially in those who smoked early on in life, still smoke or had long-term exposure to lung irritants. Emphysema can occur in young adults, but as emphysema generally develops slowly, older adults are more at risk.

Genetics

It’s rare, but an inherited genetic condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency that weakens the lungs, can cause emphysema. Also, people with a history of smoking are more likely to develop emphysema if they have a family history of COPD.

Symptoms of emphysema

Because emphysema usually progresses slowly, symptoms can take a while to appear – a person can actually have emphysema for years and not know it. Early symptoms are generally mild and become more severe as the disease progresses. Symptoms or signs of emphysema can include:

• A frequent and persistent cough
• A cough that produces a lot of mucus
• Frequent respiratory infections, like colds or the flu
• Shortness of breath during daily activities and physical activity
• Wheezing while breathing
• Chest tightness or pain
• Loss of appetite
• Sleep problems
• Depression
• Unexplained weight loss

What does emphysema feel like?

Some of the first symptoms that can appear are shortness of breath and ongoing fatigue. These symptoms alone can be dismissed as minor or related to other illnesses, so when should you see your doctor? If breathing becomes more difficult even while not being physically active, or lung sounds change – from typical breathing to wheezing, clicking or crackling – it may be time to schedule a visit.

Diagnosing emphysema

A visit to the doctor will help diagnose emphysema with a few steps. Your doctor may recommend a chest X-ray, but an X-ray doesn’t always confirm a diagnosis. It can, however, rule out other causes of shortness of breath, such as pneumonia or asthma, and help diagnose advanced stages of emphysema.

Since an X-ray doesn’t always confirm diagnosis, your doctor may also recommend a computerized tomography (CT) scan. A CT scan takes X-ray images from multiple directions to create many different views of internal organs, helping to detect and diagnose emphysema.

Another step your doctor may take is to order a lab blood test, where blood is tested to determine how well lungs are transferring oxygen to your bloodstream, and how well they’re removing carbon dioxide.

Finally, your doctor may order lung function tests, called pulmonary function tests (PFTs). PFTs, such as spirometry, nitric oxide tests and arterial blood gas tests, are noninvasive tests that measure lung capacity, how well air flows in and out of the lungs, and how well lungs deliver oxygen to the bloodstream.

Why early detection of emphysema is important

Since emphysema can’t be reversed like other lung conditions, early detection is important. Emphysema symptoms worsen over time, and early detection can slow progression of symptoms and the disease, leading to improved quality of life. It can also help identify causes of the disease so you can limit exposure to them.

The four stages of emphysema

Emphysema is classified into four stages: early, moderate, severe and very severe. Doctors use these stages to describe the progression of the disease and provide the appropriate treatment for each stage.

Early emphysema

If someone is at risk for emphysema, like those with a history of smoking, it’s important to keep an eye out for symptoms such as a nagging cough or shortness of breath, even if it’s mild. Although it’s easy to dismiss the early warning signs. But catching emphysema in this stage may help slow progression, allowing you to maintain your health for longer.

Moderate emphysema

This stage occurs when symptoms such as frequent coughing, feeling tired, shortness of breath, trouble sleeping and wheezing affect daily life. Flare-ups of symptoms, where they intensify for a few days, may occur.

Severe emphysema

In this stage, symptoms become more severe: intensified shortness of breath, tiredness and coughing, and more frequent flare-ups. Also, there may be new signs of emphysema progression, such as more frequent respiratory infections, like a cold or the flu, tightness of the chest, trouble catching your breath and others.

Very severe emphysema

Emphysema likely will be affecting every activity in day-to-day life, and it may be difficult to breath even when not being physically active. Chronic respiratory failure may occur – which means not enough oxygen is moving from the lungs to blood, and when the lungs aren’t taking enough carbon dioxide out of the blood.

Treatments for emphysema

While there isn’t a cure for emphysema, there are treatments that may help slow the progression of the disease and help people with the disease to live more comfortably.

Pulmonary rehabilitation

The goal of pulmonary rehabilitation is to promote healthy lifestyle changes –using exercise, lifestyle education and diet to help improve quality of life and ability to exercise.

Oxygen therapy

If emphysema causes low levels of oxygen in the blood, oxygen therapy may help. With oxygen therapy, supplemental oxygen can help deliver more oxygen to the lungs and bloodstream.

Emphysema medications

These may include bronchodilators to relax airways and help breathing problems, inhaled steroids, aerosol sprays that reduce inflammation and help shortness of breath, and antibiotics to treat bacterial infections.

Surgery

If the disease has progressed to the later stages, doctors may recommend lung volume reduction surgery, where damaged lung tissue is removed. If the damage is severe and other treatments haven’t worked, a lung transplant may be an option.

Lifestyle changes

Making changes to your lifestyle is easier said than done, but it’s the most important way to manage emphysema and keep living your life. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help – it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.

Stop smoking the right way for you

The number one priority is to figure out the best way to stop. Talk to your doctor about smoking cessation strategies – they may be able to prescribe gum, inhalers, patches or prescription medicines to help.

Avoid inhaled irritants

Avoiding air pollution, smoke from wood-burning fireplaces and dust may help you breathe a little easier.

Defend against infections

Washing your hands frequently when out in public, using hand sanitizer, avoiding people with respiratory illnesses, such as a cold or the flu, and getting an annual flu vaccination may help.

Stay active

Talk to your doctor, if necessary, to figure out a fitness regimen that works for you. Regular exercise can help decrease emphysema symptoms, improve circulation and help your body better use oxygen, strengthen your heart, improve mental health and so much more.

Eat well

This is an easy way to keep your immune system strong. Cutting back on red meat, processed foods and sugar, and eating a diet with more fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, fish and olive oil may help reduce inflammation. Nutritional supplements may also be helpful – talk to your doctor about your options and what fits for your lifestyle.

When should you talk to your doctor?

Early detection is the best way to control your symptoms and the progression of emphysema. If you have shortness of breath or a history of smoking, reach out to your doctor sooner rather than later. They care about your respiratory health and will help you come up with a plan so you can live your best life.

Make an appointment

3 main causes of pulmonary emphysema

Emphysema is one of the diseases that, together with chronic bronchitis and other disorders, is a representative of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In people with this disease, the bronchial tubes and air sacs, called alveoli, are damaged in the lungs. Over time, their inner walls weaken and rupture. The surface area of ​​the lungs decreases, which in turn reduces the amount of oxygen that reaches the bloodstream.

A person can live for many years and not notice any signs of illness. The main symptom of this disorder is gradually manifesting shortness of breath.

Some people avoid exercise or any activity at the time of the onset of shortness of breath. This is not surprising, because with emphysema, breathing becomes difficult and a person has a lack of air. Thus, this disorder becomes a problem only when it interferes with the performance of daily tasks associated with physical activity. A sign of emphysema in the later stages is shortness of breath, which worries even at rest.

When to run to the doctor?

If you have had unexplained shortness of breath for several months, especially if it interferes with daily tasks, you should see a doctor. Don’t ignore this symptom of emphysema by telling yourself that shortness of breath is just a consequence of aging or being out of shape.

Seek immediate medical attention if you have the following signs of emphysema:

• Shortness of breath so severe that you are unable to climb stairs,
• Lips and nails become blue or gray during physical exertion.
• You feel as if you are about to pass out.

The main cause of this disease is long-term exposure to irritants in the respiratory tract. These irritants include:

1. Tobacco smoke,
2. Polluted air,
3. Chemical fumes and dust.

Rarely, this disease is caused by an inherited deficiency of a protein that protects the elastic structures of the lungs. In this case, the disorder is called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency emphysema.

So, among the risk factors:

• Smoking, including passive smoking. This includes not only smoking regular cigarettes, but also pipes and cigars. The longer and more often a person smokes, the higher the risk of developing emphysema.
• Work in factories where a person inhales fumes or dust. If a person regularly inhales chemicals, as well as dust from grain, cotton, wood or rocks, he is at great risk of getting sick. The risk is even higher if the person also smokes.
• Exposure to polluted air – inhalation of vapors from the combustion process of fuel, as well as automobile exhaust gases.

What are the complications of emphysema?

If left untreated, the patient is more likely to experience the following complications:

• Lung collapse (pneumothorax). It is a life-threatening condition that affects some patients with a severe form of the disease.
• Heart problems. Emphysema can increase pressure in the arteries that connect the heart and lungs. In this case, the right ventricle of the heart expands and weakens.
• Formation of large holes in the lungs. In some patients, empty spaces called bullae form in the lungs. Sometimes they occupy half of the lung. In addition to reducing the space available for lung expansion, giant bullae increase the risk of pneumothorax.

How is emphysema diagnosed?

Doctors prescribe various procedures to diagnose this disease, including:

• Chest x-ray. This diagnostic method helps to detect the disease at later stages, as well as to exclude other causes of shortness of breath. However, x-rays can show a normal result even if the person has emphysema.
• Computed tomography. This method helps to detect the disease at different stages.
• Lung function test – spirometry. This non-invasive method measures how much air the lungs can hold. It also shows how well air moves in and out of the lungs.
• Blood test. This procedure is performed to determine how well the lungs carry oxygen and remove carbon dioxide from the bloodstream.

How to treat emphysema ?

None of the chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases is curable. Medication and other treatments help control symptoms and slow the progression of the disorder. Depending on the severity of symptoms, doctors may prescribe one or more drugs:

• Bronchodilators. These medicines help relax the muscles in the narrowed airways. Due to this, cough, shortness of breath and other breathing problems are alleviated.
• Inhaled steroids. Corticosteroid medications, inhaled as aerosol sprays, reduce inflammation and help with shortness of breath.
• Antibiotics. If the patient has a bacterial infection, such as acute bronchitis or pneumonia, in this case, he is prescribed antibiotics.

Additional treatments for emphysema include:

• Pulmonary rehabilitation with a set of breathing exercises. The purpose of this rehabilitation is to reduce shortness of breath and improve the ability to perform physical exercises.
• Diet therapy. In the early stages of the disease, many patients need to lose weight. But in the later stages of emphysema, patients often need to gain weight. Here you will need the help of a dietitian.
• Oxygen therapy. In a severe form of the disease with a low concentration of oxygen in the blood, a person is shown oxygen therapy. This procedure involves inhaling oxygen-enriched air through a special mask or nasal catheter.

Surgical treatment of emphysema

lung volume. During this procedure, the surgeon removes small pieces of damaged lung tissue. Removal of the pathological tissue allows the “healthy” tissue to straighten out. As a result, the lungs begin to do their job more efficiently, and the patient’s breathing improves.

How to relieve emphysema?

In order to slow the progression of the disease and protect against complications, it is recommended:

• Avoid cigarettes and avoid secondhand smoke. This is the most important and the only measure that can stop the progression of emphysema.
• Avoid other respiratory irritants. These include fumes from paint and car exhaust, perfume, dust, burning candles and incense. Air conditioner filters should also be changed regularly.
• Move more often. Shortness of breath should not stop you, because regular exercise can significantly increase lung capacity.
• Protect airways from cold air. Cold air provokes spasms in the bronchial passages, which makes breathing even harder. In the cold season, before going outside, fasten a soft scarf over your mouth and nose. Thanks to this trick, the air will already be warmed up before it enters the lungs.
• Get vaccinated. Be sure to get annual flu and pneumonia shots.
• Watch out for respiratory infections. Do your best to avoid contact with people who have colds. If you have to communicate with large groups of people during colds and flu epidemics, wear a mask. It is also recommended that you wash your hands often and have an alcohol-based hand sanitizer spray on hand.

Sources:

1. Emphysema, Mayo Clinic,
2. Learn about Emphysema, American College of Chest Physicians,
3. Emphysema, American Lung Association.

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Emphysema: symptoms, diagnosis, treatment

Learn about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of emphysema. Get useful information about the causes of the disease and effective methods of dealing with it.

Pulmonary emphysema is a chronic disease in which the firmness and elasticity of the lung tissue is lost, which leads to the expansion of air spaces and disruption of normal respiratory function.

Emphysema mainly affects older people and is a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which is also called COPD – chronic obstructive pulmonary disease combined with emphysema.

This article is devoted to the consideration of this disease, its main symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment methods that will allow you to understand the problem in more detail and prevent its occurrence in the future.

Emphysema is a chronic disease of the respiratory system that leads to irreversible changes in the lung tissue. As a result of such changes, the lungs lose their elasticity, expand and lose their functionality. This leads to breathing difficulties and a deterioration in the general condition of the body.

The risk of developing emphysema is greatly increased if a person leads an unhealthy lifestyle, suffers from lung disease, or frequently comes into contact with substances that affect the respiratory system. Based on this, measures should be taken to prevent the occurrence of the disease.

Important: Emphysema is a very serious disease that requires qualified treatment. The earlier the disease is detected and diagnosed, the greater the chances for its effective treatment and prevention of severe complications.

Emphysema is a chronic disease that leads to destruction of the walls of the alveoli, preventing them from functioning properly. Patients with emphysema experience a variety of symptoms, including:

If you experience these symptoms, especially if you are a smoker or work in an environment with high concentrations of harmful substances in the air, see a specialist for diagnosis and treatment.

Q&A:

What is pulmonary emphysema?

Emphysema is a chronic disease in which the walls of the alveoli collapse, leading to reduced gas exchange surface area and poor lung function.

What are the symptoms of emphysema?

The main symptoms of emphysema are shortness of breath, cough, copious sputum, fatigue, chest enlargement and weight loss.

How is emphysema diagnosed?

Diagnosis of emphysema includes chest x-ray, computed tomography, physical tests, and blood tests.

Can smoking cause emphysema?

Yes, smoking is one of the most important causes of emphysema.

What are the treatment options for emphysema?

Treatment for emphysema includes medication, oxygen therapy, physical rehabilitation, lifestyle changes, and surgery in extreme cases.

Can emphysema be prevented?

Emphysema can be prevented by avoiding smoking, a healthy lifestyle, and regular medical check-ups to detect early lung disease.

Diagnosis of pulmonary emphysema

Diagnosis of pulmonary emphysema begins with anamnesis and examination of the patient for characteristic symptoms. Important signs of the disease are cough, shortness of breath, fatigue and noisy breathing.

A number of additional tests, such as x-rays, computed tomography, spirometry, and blood gas analysis, may be done to confirm the diagnosis.

1. Radiography is the first and most accessible method for diagnosing emphysema. It allows you to detect an increase in lung volume and a decrease in its density.
2. Computed tomography (CT) provides more detailed information about the condition of the lungs and may reveal small changes in lung tissue.
3. Spirometry is a method for measuring inspiratory and expiratory volumes and flow rates. It allows you to determine the presence of airway obstruction.
4. Blood gas analysis measures the level of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. This method allows you to determine the degree of respiratory failure.

The combination of these methods allows you to get a complete picture of the disease and determine the further tactics of treating the patient.

Causes of emphysema

Emphysema is a disease that is associated with the destruction of lung tissue and insufficient gas exchange in the body. Emphysema can be caused by several factors:

• Smoking. This is one of the main causes of emphysema. Tobacco smoke contains a large amount of harmful substances that destroy lung tissue and disrupt their function.
• Genetic predisposition. Some people may be susceptible to the destruction of lung tissue at the genetic level, which can lead to the development of emphysema even without the involvement of other factors.
• Polluted environment. Exposure to various chemicals and toxic substances in the air may increase the risk of developing the disease.
• Professional activity. Some occupations that involve exposure to toxic substances may increase the risk of developing emphysema.

Understanding the causes of emphysema will help you take steps to prevent it and detect it early, which increases the effectiveness of treatment. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid unhealthy habits such as smoking to reduce the risk of disease.

Factors that can increase the manifestation of emphysema

Emphysema is a serious disease in which the alveoli responsible for gas exchange are affected. Some factors can increase the manifestations of this disease. Among them:

• Smoking is one of the most prominent and well-known aggravators of emphysema. Tobacco smoking destroys lung tissue, which can cause blisters to form on the surface of the lungs.
• Air pollution – inhalation has harmful effects on lung tissue, which may increase the symptoms of emphysema.
• Genetic factors – there is a hereditary predisposition to emphysema, so if you have relatives with this disease, your risk of developing it is also increased.
• Inflammatory disorders – such as bronchitis, may exacerbate emphysema.
• Non-specific airway obstruction – this can also affect the development of emphysema, as it is associated with impaired gas exchange in the lungs.

Avoiding these factors is important for those at risk of developing emphysema. In addition, regular medical monitoring will help to identify the disease in a timely manner and start treatment according to the recommendations of doctors.

How is emphysema treated?

Treatment of emphysema depends on the severity of the disease and may include medication, exercise, and, in severe cases, surgery.

The main goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms and prevent the progression of the disease. To achieve this goal, inhalation therapy can be used, which includes the use of bronchodilators and glucocorticosteroids.

In addition, exercise can also help reduce the symptoms of emphysema, improve quality of life, and improve lung function. Surgical intervention can be used only in severe cases, when conservative treatment does not give the desired effect.

It is also very important to avoid smoking and exposure to toxic substances, as they can worsen the condition of the lungs. Regular monitoring by a doctor and compliance with all the recommendations of medical personnel are also important aspects of the successful treatment of emphysema.

• Drug therapy
• Physical exercise
• Surgery

Drugs for the treatment of emphysema

Emphysema is a chronic disease and treatment is aimed at improving the quality of life of the patient and preventing progress disease. For this, various groups of drugs are used.

Bronchodilators

These medicines help relax the muscles in the bronchial tubes, widening them, making it easier to breathe. They can be presented as inhalation preparations in the form of sprays, aerosols or powders for inhalation. The main drugs in this group are beta-agonists, anticholinergics and methylxanthines.

Glucocorticosteroids

These inhaled sprays or tablets can help reduce inflammation in the lungs and reduce mucus, which can improve breathing and reduce flare-ups. However, long-term use of glucocorticosteroids is associated with a number of side effects such as osteoporosis, weight gain, and immune system deterioration.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics may be used to treat infections that can aggravate emphysema. However, their use should only be carried out under the direction of a physician after confirmation of the presence of a bacterial infection, so as not to produce antibiotic resistance in the patient.

The main principle of the treatment of pulmonary emphysema is an individual approach to each patient. Medicines can be combined depending on the severity of the disease, the presence of concomitant diseases and other factors. Treatment should be carried out only under the supervision of a physician who regularly assesses the patient’s condition and adjusts the treatment regimen.

Procedures that help with pulmonary emphysema

1. Oxygen therapy

One of the main symptoms of pulmonary emphysema is oxygen starvation. Oxygen therapy is a way to maintain the optimal level of oxygen in the patient’s body with the help of oxygen equipment. The main goal of oxygen therapy is to maintain oxygen saturation for at least 90% and reduce the need for the lungs to work to pump air.

2. Unloading the lungs with special devices

As a rule, patients with emphysema experience breathing difficulties and fatigue of the same kind as an athlete training in a high altitude zone. Therefore, for the treatment of such patients, special devices are used to unload the airways. They allow you to keep the most open position of the larynx and airways, thus reducing the degree of difficulty in breathing.

3. Chest massage

Chest massage is a technique in which the massage therapist gently manipulates the patient’s chest. It helps to soften and relax the muscles of the chest and therefore may improve the respiratory function of emphysema. However, before applying this procedure, it is necessary to consult a specialist and recommend a pulmonologist.

4. Respiratory gymnastics

One of the main reasons for the development of pulmonary emphysema is the deterioration of the ability of the lungs to carry the load. Regular respiratory exercises help to increase the level of physical activity and improve the quality of life of patients with emphysema. The results of such gymnastics may be few, but in general, it improves the quality of life of patients.

Can emphysema be completely cured?

Emphysema is a chronic disease that causes destruction of lung tissue. As a result, the lungs lose their elasticity and cannot function properly.

Currently, there is no effective way to completely cure emphysema. However, proper treatment and symptom control can significantly improve patients’ quality of life. It is important to start treatment as early as possible to slow the progression of the disease and prevent complications.

Emphysema is often treated with drugs that dilate the bronchi and improve lung function. Physiotherapy and rehabilitation courses may also be prescribed.

In some cases, surgery may be required, such as pulmonary resection growth. However, such operations are performed only in the most severe cases and the choice of treatment always depends on the individual situation of the patient.

In any case, regular monitoring of the condition of the lungs and following all the doctor’s recommendations will help improve the life of a patient with pulmonary emphysema.

What preventive measures help prevent emphysema?

Emphysema is a serious disease that leads to a deterioration in the patient’s life. However, there are preventive measures that help prevent the development of this disease.

• Smoking cessation . This is one of the most important measures to prevent emphysema. Smoking is the main cause of the disease.
• Strengthening the immune system . This helps prevent the development of infections that can lead to emphysema.
• Avoidance of polluted air . Harmful substances in the air can adversely affect lung health.
• Healthy lifestyle . Regular exercise, proper nutrition and enough sleep help maintain the health of the lungs and the whole body as a whole.

If you follow these preventive measures, you can prevent the development of emphysema and keep your lungs healthy for many years.

Sequelae of emphysema

Emphysema is a chronic disease that leads to destruction of the retina of the lung vesicles.