Pulmonary emphysema – risk factors, symptoms and treatment
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Pulmonary emphysema represents a deterioration of the lung tissue and the appearance of abnormal, large spaces in the lungs, which leads to breathing difficulties. This disease especially affects the elderly, say the doctors from Victor Babes Hospital Timisoara.
According to pulmonologist Monica Marc, the main risk factor for pulmonary emphysema is smoking, both active and passive, but there are also other factors that are incriminated, among which are environmental air pollutants, recurrent respiratory infections, prematurity and low birth weight. , but also the genetic predisposition.
Signs and symptoms
Pulmonary emphysema is a progressive condition, and patients may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, chronic cough and difficulties in performing daily activities. The disease exerts a significant pressure on the patients’ daily activities. Breathing difficulties and decreased lung capacity can turn seemingly simple tasks into considerable challenges.
“Trivial activities such as climbing the stairs, walking longer distances or even doing household tasks become exhausting efforts. Thus, patients face a limitation of independence and quality of life.
Pulmonary emphysema affects not only the physical appearance, but also the social relationships of the patients. Due to mobility restrictions and the need to protect themselves from risk factors, patients can become socially isolated. Participating in social events or meeting friends and family becomes a challenge, and this isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression,” says Dr. Monica Marc, primary pulmonologist, according to a press release from Victor Babes Timisoara Hospital.
According to the cited source, the incidence of this condition is high.
“It must be emphasized that emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the main factors in the constitution of COPD, altering, to varying degrees and unevenly, the lungs,” the pulmonologist states.
Available treatment options include drug therapy, oxygen therapy, and, in some cases, surgery. It is, however, particularly important the personalized approach in the care of patients with pulmonary emphysema.
“However, there is no specific treatment to recover lost lung function, but quitting smoking can change the natural course of the condition. Anti-influenza and anti-pneumococcal vaccinations are also recommended, as well as a healthy, active lifestyle,” Dr. Monica Marc continues.
Source: Victor Babes Hospital Timisoara/FB
Tags: pulmonary emphysema, lung diseases, victor babes hospital Timisoara
2023-12-08 11:32:57
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