Customer question:
What is emphysema? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Emphysema is one of the two primary forms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the other form being chronic bronchitis. Emphysema causes damage to the walls of the tiny air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs. These alveoli eventually lose their average elasticity, causing the walls of the air sacs to overstretch.
Emphysema and chronic bronchitis, collectively known as COPD, often coexist in individuals, so the term COPD describes these two related lung diseases. Tobacco smoking is the most common cause of the development of emphysema. However, other exposures to irritants, such as polluted air, dust, and chemicals, can also play a role in developing the disease.
Treatment of emphysema is aimed at alleviating symptoms, slowing down the progression of the disease, and improving the individual's quality of life. This may include medications, therapeutic procedures, and, in some cases, surgical procedures. Quitting smoking and avoiding other irritants is also an essential part of managing emphysema.
Interesting reading: Emphysema of the lungs
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