Pulmonary Wellness

What is Emphysema?
Emphysema is the chronic breakdown of normal spongy lung tissue. This causes a loss of proper support of the airways as well as the loss of alveoli. Alveoli are the tiny lung units where oxygen is absorbed. Emphysema often coexists with chronic bronchitis.

What are the symptoms of Emphysema?

Very severe shortness of breath
Wheezing
Barrel chest

Emphysema is often caused by cigarette smoking, perhaps made worse by a variety of occupational dusts and chemicals, and in some cases hereditary factors.

What are the consequences of Emphysema?
If left untreated, it can lead to:

Respiratory failure
Pneumonias
Heart failure
Collapsed lung

What are the warning signs?

Difficulty breathing on exertion
Development of dark sputum
Chest pain
Edema (feet swelling)
Blue fingers

What is the therapy for Emphysema?
Emphysema is irreversible, but treatment can optimize remaining lung function and forestall serious consequences.

Bronchodilators
Techniques to promote airway clearance
Antibiotics during acute infection