Popular talk-show host Johnny Carson has died of emphysema (January 2005). Emphysema is one of a group of diseases called COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease that causes progressive damage to the lungs.
Bare facts about emphysema
What is emphysema
Emphysema is a progressive disease of the airways that is characterized by a gradual loss of
lung function. This serious lung disease causes damage that cannot be cured or reversed
although there are treatments that can lead to some improvement in lung function.
Emphysema is a result of the toxin destroying the small air sacs in the lungs, called
alveoli. The air sacs stretch as they transport oxygen from the air to the blood and then
shrink as they force out carbon dioxide. The lungs lose their elasticity as a result. Exhaling
becomes difficult and air becomes trapped in the lungs trap air and cannot effectively
exchange it with fresh air. The damaged lungs are not able to provide the body with the oxygen
it needs. The result is that people's lives are transformed. In severe cases any form of
physical exertion causes breathing to become so labored that quality of life is minimal. The
inability to breath freely is emotionally exhausting and very frightening.
Causes of emphysema
Cigarette smoking is the major cause of emphysema. It accounts for more than 80 percent of all
cases. Most victims are over 40 years of age and have been long term smokers.
Exposure to the toxins in air pollution is also thought to be contributing factor of
emphysema.
There is a rare inherited form of emphysema called alpha-1 antitrypsin. People with this
deficiency are more likely than others to get emphysema.
Signs and Symptoms of smphysema
Treatments for emphysema
The most important treatment is prevention by not smoking. Thereafter treatment options that your
doctor may advise include;
Antibiotics:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics, such as ampicillin, may help combat
respiratory infections and help prevent further damage to the lungs.
Anti-inflammatory medications (corticosteroids):
Steroids such as prednisolone may be used to
minimize inflammation associated with emphysema.
Bronchodilators:
These medications help open up constricted airways and make breathing
easier.
Oxygen therapy:
Supplemental oxygen can benefit the patient whose lung function is
severely impaired.
Exercise programs:
Exercise programs can help improve independence and quality of life.
It cannot make any significant improvement to the damaged lungs affected by emphysema.
Lung reduction surgery:
In this procedure small portions of the lung are cut to allow
healthy tissue room to expand. This increases the amount of oxygen to the body and helps
relieve breathing problems.
Lung transplantation:
Where all other treatment options have failed lung transplantation
may be an option. It is risky, expensive and will only be appropriate for a small number of
people.
Prolastin:
is an FDA approved treatment for A1AD-related emphysema. The replacement
therapy of Prolastin raises the level of AAT in the blood and may protect the lung tissue
from the destructive enzyme.
Prevention of emphysema
Stop smoking before damage is evident. Preventive measures such as flu shots, the pneumonia
vaccine, prompt treatment of respiratory infection and a good balanced diet can make a positive
contribution to prevent further lung damage.
Article Sources: American Lung Association, CDC Centers for Disease Control, National Emphysema Foundation, National Institutes for Health, National Lung Health Education Program
