Medical Questions » Lungs Questions » Question No. 590
| Question: | I am 78 years old and my doctor tells me I have emphysema. I would be much obliged if you could tell me what is available to ease this condition. |
| Answer: | Emphysema is a degenerative disease of the lungs caused by smoking, recurrent lung infections, or the inhalation of toxic gases. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the condition, but there are many medications (most of which require prescriptions) and techniques that can be used to control the cough and shortness of breath that occur. The treatments available include:
• Medication to prevent any spasm of the air tubes (bronchi) in the lungs, and prevent the excess production of mucus. These are in the form of inhalers such as Flixotide, Becotide, Pulmicort and Aldecin.
• Bronchodilators that open up the airways to allow more air into the lungs. Examples include Ventolin, Respolin, Atrovent, Seretide, Oxis and Bricanyl. They can be taken using either an inhaler or a nebuliser.
• Tablets such as Theo-Dur and Nuelin that open up the airways, but often cause the heart to race as a side effect.
• A tablet or mixture called Bisolvon which liquefies the phlegm in the lungs so that it can clear away more easily.
• Antibiotics that are used to treat any infection at the earliest possible stage.
• Steroid tablets or injections which are used as a last resort to treat severe episodes, or prevent a recurrence if no other medication works.
• Physiotherapy, which is very important to assist in the clearance of excess mucus from the lungs.
By using combinations and permutations of the above treatments, most emphysema victims can lead useful and comfortable lives.
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