If you want to know more about this disease than you should be able to read this article because it will give you everything that you would need to know about emphysema and what you can do to combat the condition without experiencing any kind of complications in the process.
The Definition of Terms
Before we go any further, let us first define what Emphysema really is. It is derived from a Greek word meaning swelling. It refers to a condition wherein the patient would experience extreme difficulty in breathing. Because of this, the patient may experience shortness of breath.
This is a long-term condition that may progress to more serious disease evolutions. It is also part of a group of known diseases that is also known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Major Causes
One of the most prominent causes of the condition would be tissue damage in the lungs. If the tissues of the lungs are damaged, it will not be able to support the major breathing organ. However, one may ask what can damage the tissues of the lungs.
Here are some of the major lung damage activities that you have to avoid as much as possible.
- Smoking
- Long-term exposure to air pollution
Aside from this, there are some other major causes that you should take note of. These are as follows.
- Genetic mutation
- Aging
This is why it would be advisable for you to avoid any kind of smoking related products such as cigarettes or tobacco. In addition to this, you should always live a healthy lifestyle and avoid any kind of vices as much as possible.
Signs and Symptoms
Just like any other diseases, there are some signs and symptoms that you have to watch out for. Here are some of those signs and symptoms specific to Emphysema.
- Dyspnea or shortness of breath
- Rapid breathing
- Coughing
- Increased amount of phlegm
If a patient as any of these symptoms, it would be best to go to the doctor to be given proper medication.
Treatment
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for this disease. It is a long-term and degenerative. However, there are certain medications that the patient can take to relieve him or her of the symptoms. These are as follows.
- Brochodilators
- Anticholinergics
- Steroid medication
- A steady supply of oxygen
The steroids can be both oral and inhaled. Lung transpla is all the news in nt is the most effectively for the disease to be treated. However, most of the patients do not survive the surgery. It is a combination of age and lack of physical strength that may cause the patient to not survive at all.
This is why it is a very important for you as a patient to follow the doctor’s orders when it comes to changing your habits. The most effective way to avoid emphysema is to avoid smoking altogether. This way, you will be able to live a healthier and longer life in the future.
In addition, you should also be able to avoid pollution as much as possible so that you would not end up having lung problems in general. If you can, try to live in a location where there is fresh air.
Shan is an accomplished writer and blogger. His blog Healthresource4u.com talks about different health related topics. He loves to write about women’s fitness related topic like hymens, yeast Infection in women etc.