Emphysema (in Greek) means "inflation." In this case, it refers to Inflation of lungs.

Who are at high risk of getting Emphysema?

Males, 50 to 70 years of age, especially those that are heavy smokers, are more likely to have this disease that any other age/gender group. As more women are starting to smoke early, increasingly more women are now being diagnosed with Emphysema.

Another group that has high incident of Emphysema involves those that are exposed to air-pollutants in their workplace or in (or in the vicinity of) their homes. Those that are born with a lack of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin are also more susceptible to Emphysema.

What are the symptoms of Emphysema?

Emphysema develops over times. Early signs include chronic cough, followed by chronic bronchitis. Patient often experiences shortness of breath, asthma-like symptoms.

What causes Emphysema?

Emphysema usually develops as a result of chronic infection in airways. The airways (bronchi tubes) gets obstructed, irritated, or infected, resulting in impaired oxygenation of blood.

If infection persisit for a long time, eventually the entire lungs may become enlarged, reaulting in a condition that is known as "Inflamed Lungs" or Emphysema.

Again, cigarette smoking, exposure to air-pollutants, and the lack of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin are the leading cause of Emphysema.

What are the treatment options for Emphysema?

Stopping to smoke is the first step. Bronchial dilating medications, medications to treat asthma, antibiotics to combat any infections and oxygen therapy are also commonly prescribed. For those diagnosed with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, alpha-1 antitrypsin infusion on an ongoing basis is also prescribed.

Don't forget to check out Lung Disease News section of this website for the latest Emphysema Treatment News, and our Lung Disease Articles Library for the latest Emphysema related articles.

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