Emphysema is a common condition among smokers that involves progressive damage to the alveoli in the lungs which results to frequent episodes of shortness of breath. The condition is one of the diseases responsible for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Smoking is the main cause of emphysema. It is important to note that the interior walls of the alveoli deteriorate and finally break which leads to the formation of a single large air region instead of several ones.
This causes significant reduction in the surface area of the lungs that results to diminished amount of oxygen that reaches the bloodstream. When exhaling, the old air remains trapped within the sacs and there is no space for fresh air to enter. With the help of treatment, it can slow down the progression of the disease but the damage done is permanent.
Possible causes
- Tobacco smoking
- Inhalation of polluted air
- Marijuana smoking
- Exposure to chemical fumes in the workplace
Risk factors
- Smoking – among those who smoke, especially chronic smokers, there is a higher risk for developing emphysema
- Age – ages 40-60 years old
- Secondhand smoke exposure – being exposed to secondhand smoke increases the risk for developing the condition
- Occupational exposure to dust or fumes – some chemicals from burning cotton, grains, wood and other mining products
Indications of emphysema
An individual might have emphysema for an extended period but do not have any symptoms.
The initial symptom of emphysema is progressive shortness of breath. The individual will gradually avoid normal activities due to fear of worsening the shortness of breath. As the condition progresses, the individual starts to suffer from shortness of breath even while at rest.
Management
The treatment for emphysema includes medications. Those that are given are based on the severity of the condition along with the symptoms experienced by the individual. Some of the commonly used medications include:
- Bronchodilators – these works by alleviating coughing and shortness of breath by freeing the airways
- Inhaled steroids – these medications work by relieving shortness of breath
- Antibiotics – these are used in cases of bacterial infection such as pneumonia
Therapies
- Pulmonary rehabilitation – this includes a variety of breathing exercises to improve shortness of breath
- Nutrition therapy – the proper diet is vital for those with emphysema
- Supplemental oxygen – due to low oxygenation of blood, this can be used to increase the oxygen supply to different parts of the body