What is emphysema?

Emphysema is a condition in which there is over-inflation of structures in the lungs known as alveoli or air sacs. This over-inflation results from a breakdown of the walls of the alveoli, which causes a decrease in respiratory function and breathlessness. Early symptoms of emphysema include shortness of breath and cough.

What causes emphysema?
 
The lung has a system of elastic fibers. The fibers allow the lungs to expand
and contract. When the chemical balance is altered, the lungs lose the ability to protect themselves against the destruction of these elastic fibers. This is what happens in emphysema.

There are a number of reasons this chemical imbalance occurs. Smoking is responsible for 82% of chronic lung disease, including emphysema. Exposure to air pollution is one suspected cause. Irritating fumes and dusts on the job also are thought to be a factor.

How Does Emphysema Develop?

Emphysema begins with the destruction of air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs where oxygen from the air is exchanged for carbon dioxide in the blood. The walls of the air sacs are thin and fragile. Damage to the air sacs is irreversible and results in permanent "holes" in the tissues of the lower lungs. As air sacs are destroyed, the lungs are able to transfer less and less oxygen to the bloodstream, causing shortness of breath. The lungs also lose their elasticity. The patient experiences great difficulty exhaling.

Emphysema doesn't develop suddenly- it comes on very gradually. Years of exposure to the irritation of cigarette smoke usually precede the development of emphysema. As the disease progresses, a brief walk can be enough to bring on difficulty in breathing.

Treatments for emphysema:

• Quiting smoking -the single most important factor for maintaining healthy lungs.
• Exercise -including breathing exercises to strengthen the muscles used in breathing as part of a pulmonary (the term"pulmonary" refers to the lungs) rehabilitation program to conditon the rest of the body.
• Lung transplantation - Some recent reports have been encouraging. Experience at this point in time is limited.
• Bronchodilator drugs (prescription drugs that relax and open up air passages in the lungs) - may be prescribed to treat emphysema if there is a tendency toward airway constriction or tightening. These drugs may be inhaled as aerosol sprays or taken orally.

Prevention of emphysema:

• Emphysema is a serious disease. It damages your lungs, and it can damage your heart. See your doctor at the first sign of symptoms.
• DON'T SMOKE. A majority of those who get emphysema are smokers. Continued smoking makes emphysema worse, especially for those who have the inherited form of emphysema.
• Maintain overall good health habits, which include proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and regular exercise to build up yourstamina and resistance to infections.
• When pollution levels are dangerous, remain indoors and stay as comfortable as possible.

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