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Emphysema is a lung disease that involves damage to the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs. The air sacs are unable to completely deflate, and are therefore unable to fill with fresh air to ensure adequate oxygen supply to...
Basic Info
Symptoms
Shortness of breath; Chronic cough with or without sputum production; Wheezing; Decreased ability to exercise. Addition...
Causes
Cigarette smoking is the most common cause of emphysema. Tobacco smoke and other pollutants are thought to cause the re...
Tests
A physical examination may show wheezing, decreased breath sounds, or prolonged exhalation (exhalation takes more than ...
Treatments
Smoking cessation is the most important and effective treatment. Only quitting smoking can stop the progression of lung...
Alternative Therapies
Visit the American Lung Association's web site at www.lungusa.org to find a support group near you.
Complications
Recurrent respiratory infections; Pulmonary hypertension; Cor pulmonale (enlargement and strain on the right side of th...
Prevention
Avoiding smoking - or quitting if you do smoke - can greatly decrease risk for this disease.
Doctor Specialties
Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of emphysema. If you know you have emphysema, call your health c...
Basic Info
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