Emphysema is defined as a chronic progressive lung disease. Emphysema causes tissue to deteriorate the physical shape and function of the lungs. It is classified as one of the chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (CPOD). Emphysema patients experience the destruction of the tissues of the lungs of the alveoli, which are small air sacs in the lungs. When a person with emphysema inhales, the alveoli cannot fully fill with air, causing a decrease in lung volume and shortness of breath. When normal breathing occurs, air inhaled through the mouth reaches into the bronchi and into the alveoli, which are tiny sacs surrounded by capillaries. Alveoli absorb oxygen and carry it into the blood.
Emphysema can be broken down into primary and secondary classifications called panaciar and centricinar emphysema. Pan-epidemic epidemic arises when the entire respiratory acinus expands. This form is more common in the lower lobes, in particular, the basal segments and the front edges of the lungs. Central emphysema occurs when the respiratory bronchiole expands. With this form of emphysema, the alveoli are unchanged. The centriacinar form is usually located in the upper lobes of the lungs.
The most common symptoms of emphysema include shortness of breath with exertion and expansion of the chest. People suffering from the disease, can not reach the required amount of oxygen needed by the body. They also cannot release carbon dioxide from their blood. Shortness of breath not only occurs during physical activity and tension, but also during relaxation. Rapid breathing for oxygen is also a symptom, as well as a severe cough and reduced sputum. Patients may also experience weight loss and an increased chest diameter, called the chest.
Smoking tobacco is the most common cause of emphysema, but it can also be caused by other etiologies, alpha-1-antitrypsin, old age, air pollution and exposure to hazardous chemicals and even secondary smoke.
Emphysema is usually diagnosed with pulmonary function test. After the diagnosis, doctors prescribe the correct treatment. Treatment for emphysema includes: anticholinergics, bronchodilators, steroid drugs, effective body positioning and supplemental oxygen as needed.
Supplemental oxygen provides non-surgical treatment for patients. Patients usually require 20+ hours of supplemental oxygen per day. It has been shown that this treatment prolongs life without the need for intensive medication or surgery.
When surgery is required, doctors perform a lung volume reduction operation (LVRS). There are several ways to perform LVRS. The most common method was to install tiny valves in the aisles leading to painful areas of the lungs. The only true & nbsp; for emphysema, there is a lung transplant, although few patients are physically strong enough to withstand this procedure.
The best and effective way to avoid emphysema is to live a healthy lifestyle and avoid tobacco smoke and other carcinogens that can damage the lungs.
