Emphysema Treatment Guide: Causes and Treatment

E mphysema is a progressive respiratory condition that causes the tiny air sacks in the lungs to burst. As this damage takes place, the lungs lose their ability to remain elastic. The lungs progressively lose their ability to absorb Oxygen and release carbon dioxide as well, which can easily lead to sudden death. Fortunately, emphysema treatment can prevent the condition from getting worse and relief the symptoms. Causes of Emphysema People who have had other lung or heart conditions are at a greater risk of developing emphysema. But the risk also increases if the individual has exposure to tobacco or cannabis smoke. Other risk factors are exposure to dust, smoke in the workplace, and air pollution. Emphysema Treatment The first treatment of emphysema is medication. Medicines reduce swelling and inflammation in the lungs. They also open the airways and prevent further infections. Typically, people use short-acting medications to lessen pain promptly and long-acting drugs to prevent or control the symptoms. The next treatment mode is pulmonary rehabilitation. This program is effective at managing symptoms and enhancing the quality of life. In some cases, it includes nutritional counseling and exercise. Oxygen supplementation is another emphysema management option that may help patients with severe COPD. As the condition progresses, the patient requires a higher amount of Oxygen. This option will help a patient breath with considerable ease and remain alert always. Health professionals sometimes recommend lung reduction surgery. Surgery is used when all the other emphysema management options have proven unhelpful. The aim of this operation is to remove part of the damaged lung, and if necessary, a lung transplant follows. Conclusion Every person has the right to help plan their healthcare. So, whenever a person notices any problems in the chest area or breathing difficulties, he or she should consult a doctor. The physical can put the person under emphysema treatment in time if the expert proves the individual is developing emphysema. [Photo: flickr.com]