|
What is Emphysema?
Feb. 10, 2005
What can you tell me about emphysema, the disease that killed Johnny Carson?
Emphysema is a condition that develops gradually in which the walls between the lung’s air sacs lose their elasticity and weaken. Air is then trapped in the sacs, making the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide difficult. When less oxygen is exchanged in the lungs, less oxygen is delivered to the bloodstream, and as a result people experience shortness of breath.
As emphysema develops, damage to the air sacs progresses, leading to holes in the sacs. As the sacs are destroyed, patients receive less oxygen to their bloodstream. Additionally, the lungs lose elasticity, which makes it difficult for patients to exhale.
Treatment Options
Treatment for emphysema focuses on preventing progression of the disease.
-
Patients should quit smoking, if they still smoke. Patients may be told to do breathing exercises.
-
Prescription medicines that relax and open air passages may be given, and antibiotics are prescribed for those who develop bacterial infections as a result of emphysema.
-
Surgery—lung transplantation and lung volume reduction surgery are options for patients who qualify.
Additional Information
--Information provided by Christine Wendt, M.D., Advanced Lung Disease Program, University of Minnesota Physicians
|
