Emphysema Research Paper

Emphysema is known as a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which gradually damages the alveoli, also known as air sacs, in the lungs. The damage to the air sacs, makes it difficult to breath, because the body does not get all the oxygen to function properly. According to the article, Emphysema, when a person has the disease, "the inner walls of the air sacs weaken and eventually rupture — creating one larger air space instead of many small ones... this reduces the surface area of the lungs and, in turn, the amount of oxygen that reaches your bloodstream," (MAYOCLINIC). People suffering from emphysema, usually experience shortness of breath with daily and other activities. Others might experience: exhaustion, weight loss, depression,
Doctors usually diagnose an individual by examining their medical background and history and running several tests. Imaging tests (X-rays and CT scans) are very common to look at the lungs, blood tests help determine how much oxygen is transferring to the lungs, and pulse oximetry which measure the oxygen content of the blood, are few of the many tests doctors can use to detect emphysema. Once the lung specialist diagnoses a patient with emphysema, immediate treatment is suggested. Treatment for emphysema is based on the patient’s severity. For example, a doctor could suggest bronchodilators, a medication that aims to relieve coughing and breathing problems by relaxing constricted airways. Others might suggest a pulmonary rehabilitation, that helps patients practice breathing exercises to shortness of breath and fatigue. Inhalers, and sometimes surgery might also relieve symptoms and prevent complications. The best way to prevent emphysema is to stop smoking or don't smoke at all. Secondhand smoke is extremely harmful as well; therefore, it is important to stay away from harmful fumes and heavy pollution. It is best to stop smoking and suffer for a while to control yourself, then to continue smoking and suffer from emphysema for the rest of your