This is Barnsley Health

Home > Disease > COPD > Emphysema > Summarising Emphysema Summarising Emphysema

COPD

Emphysema

Summarising Emphysema

Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to emphysema.

•	Emphysema is a chronic lung disease that reduces the lungs' ability to expand and contract.
•	When the air sacs in the lungs cannot expand and contract normally, less oxygen passes through the lungs to the body.
•	Cigarette smoking is the major cause of emphysema.
•	Diagnosis of emphysema is based on a review of symptoms, lung function tests, breathing patterns and, sometimes, x-rays or CT scans.
•	A substance called alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) is thought to protect against some of the damage caused by cigarette smoke or other irritants. People with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AAT deficiency) are at a higher risk for severe disease.
•	A blood test can establish the diagnosis of AAT deficiency.
•	There is currently no cure for emphysema, but the symptoms can be lessened with medication, supplemental oxygen, and proper nutrition
•	For people with emphysema due to AAT deficiency, weekly infusions of alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor may slow lung tissue destruction.


	This section has eight pages. Use navigation strip to access other pages.

Your Effective Long Term Healthcare Solution