E
mphysema reduces the surface of the lungs thus causing difficulties in breathing. Its impacts can be devastating because it leads to destruction of tissues and can be fatal. The moment you are diagnosed with the condition, you need to work with a physician to get the best treatment option. The following is a look at some of the treatment options that have been used and continue to work today.
Use Inhalants
Inhalants come in handy for people with emphysema. Inhalants relax your bronchial muscles and facilitate free air flow which in turn improves breathing. Inhalants are excellent for immediate relief because they are created for short term use.
Oral Drugs
The
inhaler is not sufficient when combating emphysema. Patients are given steroids including prednisone.
Antibiotics are also used orally to help prevent serious infections such as pneumonia which can lead to death. There are other oral treatments used to reduce the amount of mucus. It is crucial to administer drugs that prevent mucus from coming up to the lungs.
Supplementation of oxygen
Most patients with this condition will get to a point where they have to use oxygen masks to supplement their level of oxygen. Some may need oxygen every day depending on the severity of the condition. Fortunately, technological improvements make it easy for people to carry small
oxygen tanks that can extract oxygen and convert it for immediate use.
Rehabilitation and surgery
Patients become potential candidates for surgery when their lung volume increases immensely.
Surgery is significant because it helps reduce the lung volume making it easy and comfortable to breathe. Pulmonary rehabilitation may be another recommended option that your doctor suggests helping combat the symptoms and effects of emphysema diseases.
[Foto: flickr]
