If you or your doctor suspect that you have emphysema, it is important to get tested from a qualified establishment such as Manse Medical, so you can receive a diagnosis and Emphysema treatment that you need to effectively address the condition.
The diagnosis and treatment of emphysema conducted at Manse Medical uses a variety of methods; from tests, to rehabilitation, to education. At Manse Medical’s sleep and respiratory clinic, you will receive an effective diagnosis, as well as a comprehensive treatment plan to ensure that you are perfectly equipped to lessen your emphysema symptoms and achieve an improved quality of life.
How does Manse Medical address Emphysema?
There are many different approaches that the respiratory specialists at Manse Medical take to address emphysema in patients. These approaches help accurately diagnose emphysema, then create a complete treatment plan that works individually for patients.
Diagnosing emphysema
Because emphysema is one of the many conditions that are grouped under the term Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), it is diagnosed using the same methods as other COPD conditions.
Spirometry testing
The primary method used to diagnose COPD is called spirometry testing, in which the patient blows a deep breath into a machine called a spirometer, which measures the amount of air inhaled and exhaled, as well as the rate and force of the patient’s breath.
Other diagnosis procedures
In addition to Spirometry testing, other procedures that could be carried out to test for COPD such as emphysema include;
- physical examination
- medical history
- gas transfer and lung volume tests
- blood tests
- sputum analysis
- chest x-ray
- computed tomography (CT) scan
Treatment options for Emphysema
Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Pulmonary rehabilitation is considered one of the most effective treatments for conditions such as emphysema that are associated with COPD. It is a form of rehabilitation that includes exercise training, education, nutrition counselling and psychosocial support.
Medication
There are two kinds of COPD medications:
- reliever medicines, which are taken when symptoms flare up
- maintenance medicines, which are taken every day for the sake of long term improvements.
The majority of these medications are delivered directly into the lungs via inhalers, and they include;
- Short acting bronchodilators used for the quick relief of COPD symptoms, typically lasting about 4-6 hours
- Long acting bronchodilators used for long term management of COPD symptoms as well as the prevention of flare ups, typically lasting about 12-24 hours
- Combination bronchodilators plus inhaled corticosteroids used to treat COPD if you have regular flare-ups of your COPD, you still have symptoms after using a long-acting inhaler, and/or your condition is an overlap of COPD and asthma
- Bronchodilators in tablet form, which are only used in some cases of severe COPD
- Oral corticosteroids, tablets designed to reduce inflammation in the lungs in the event of a flare up
- Antibiotics and Mucolytics, used to reduce mucus and address a flare up if the symptoms are the result of bacteria
Oxygen Therapy
Oxygen therapy is a treatment that can be performed in-clinic or at home to increase the amount of oxygen in the blood. This reduces breathlessness and improves the quality of life for people with COPD conditions such as emphysema. Oxygen therapy is administered through a device called an oxygen concentrator, which filters out nitrogen and other gases in the air, leaving only oxygen which is delivered to the patient through a mask or nasal cannula.
Non-Invasive Ventilation
Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) involves the delivery of air using a face mask, nasal mask, or a helmet, rather than an invasive artificial airway (such as a tube). Air, usually with added oxygen, is given to the patient through the mask under positive pressure, where the amount is altered depending on whether the patient is breathing in or out.
Smoking Cessation
In the event that the patient is a smoker, Manse Medical will recommend and aid the patient to quit smoking, as that is an effective way to improve a patient’s cough, ease breathlessness and slow down further lung damage.
What is emphysema?
Emphysema is a long-term, progressive disease of the lungs that primarily causes shortness of breath, and occurs when the air sacs in the lungs are damaged over time, this damage causing the lung tissue to break down, which makes it hard for a person to breathe. In severe cases, emphysema can lead to life-threatening complications, such as respiratory failure, making it all the more important to treat as soon as possible.
What are the symptoms of emphysema?
The most common symptoms of emphysema are;
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Persistent coughing
- Tightness in the chest
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
Other symptoms may include bluish tint to the skin due to lack of oxygen (a.k.a. cyanosis), swelling in the ankles and feet, a decreased appetite, depression, and an increased risk of respiratory infections.
What causes emphysema?
Causes of emphysema include;
- Smoking, as cigarette smoke contains toxins that damage the air sacs in the lungs, making them less able to hold oxygen
- Long-term exposure to environmental pollutants, such as dust, fumes, and smoke
- Certain genetic mutations, which can cause a rare type of emphysema known as alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT) deficiency, in which the body does not produce enough of a natural enzyme that helps protect the lungs from damage
- Age, as the older you get, the more susceptible you are to developing the condition
Emphysema FAQs
What causes emphysema?
The primary cause of emphysema is prolonged exposure to irritants, with cigarette smoke being the leading culprit. In addition to smoking, other significant contributors include exposure to air pollution, industrial dust, and certain genetic factors. The inhalation of these irritants over an extended period leads to inflammation and damage to the delicate air sacs in the lungs, resulting in the characteristic symptoms of emphysema.
Is emphysema reversible?
Emphysema-induced damage to the air sacs is typically irreversible. However, early intervention and effective management can slow down the progression of the disease and alleviate symptoms. Treatment strategies often focus on improving the individual’s quality of life, enhancing lung function, and preventing further deterioration. While there is no cure, proper care and lifestyle adjustments can make a significant difference in the long-term outlook for individuals with emphysema.
How does emphysema differ from chronic bronchitis?
Both emphysema and chronic bronchitis fall under the umbrella of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, emphysema primarily involves the gradual destruction of lung tissue, particularly the air sacs, leading to decreased elasticity and airflow. On the other hand, chronic bronchitis is characterised by persistent inflammation of the airways and increased mucus production, causing cough and difficulty breathing.
At what age does emphysema typically develop?
Emphysema commonly develops later in life, often around the age of 50 or older. However, it can manifest earlier, particularly in individuals with a history of heavy smoking or prolonged exposure to lung irritants. Age of onset can vary, and early detection becomes crucial for effective management and intervention to slow disease progression.
Can non-smokers develop emphysema?
While smoking remains the primary cause, non-smokers can still develop emphysema. Factors such as prolonged exposure to environmental pollutants, secondhand smoke, or genetic predisposition contribute to the risk.
How is emphysema different from asthma?
While both conditions fall under COPD, emphysema and asthma are distinct respiratory conditions. Asthma is characterised by reversible airway obstruction due to inflammation and bronchoconstriction, often triggered by various factors. In contrast, emphysema involves irreversible damage to lung tissue, particularly the destruction of air sacs.
Is emphysema hereditary?
There is evidence supporting a genetic predisposition to emphysema. Individuals with a family history of the condition may face a higher risk, especially when combined with environmental factors like smoking. Understanding the genetic component is crucial for identifying individuals at increased risk and implementing preventive measures and early interventions.
Is air pollution a significant risk factor for emphysema?
Prolonged exposure to high levels of air pollution, especially in industrial or urban areas, poses a significant risk for the development and exacerbation of emphysema. The harmful particles and chemicals in polluted air can contribute to lung inflammation and damage. Minimising exposure to air pollutants through lifestyle modifications and environmental measures is advisable to reduce the risk of emphysema and protect respiratory health.
Where can I go for effective Emphysema Treatment?
At Manse Medical, we provide both high-quality diagnosis and treatment for respiratory disorders such as emphysema. Book your appointment online by selecting your preferred clinic and choosing from the list of available specialists.
