Emphysema

Breathing is one of the most basic, yet important, functions that our body performs and most of us do not even give it a second thought. Imagine having to struggle for each breath taken? Respiratory disorders and diseases are some of the most common medical conditions in the world. They encompass any number of conditions that affect the breathing system and can range from a mild common cold to more severe lung cancer. These disorders can be classified in many ways, one of which is a group called chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. Included in that group is a disease called emphysema.

“Respiratory Disorders”
Emphysema is an irreversible, progressive disease that gradually damages the air sacs in the lungs causing shortness of breath. In people with emphysema, the inner walls of the air sacs weaken and eventually break, which creates one large air space instead of many small ones. Think of an old sponge with large holes and very little elasticity. This reduces its ability to hold as much water as a new sponge. The reduced surface area of the lungs causes reduction in the amount of oxygen that reaches the bloodstream. When exhaling, the damaged alveoli do not work properly and old air becomes trapped, leaving no room for fresh air to enter.
Although there are multiple
The most common symptoms are shortness of breath, chronic coughing, wheezing, barrel chest, rapid breathing and weight loss. Eventually, the disease may lead to respiratory failure. Treatment may slow the progression, but it cannot reverse it. Although there is no cure, there are effective methods of treatment such as bronchodilators, inhaled steroids, antibiotics, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation and surgery, that can help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Above all else, the most preventative treatment for people with emphysema is to abstain from