What is Emphysema?

4. Treatment

Unfortunately, emphysema is not curable. However, people diagnosed with the condition can manage it using various methods. Stopping or not starting smoking can help reduce the effects, and doctors may also recommend

• Drug therapies -- Doctors will employ inhaled medications to relieve the symptoms. The working principle involves opening and relaxing air passages. This treatment may involve short-term and long-term medications.
• Oxygen therapy -- When the disease has advanced and respiratory function starts to decline, this method will improve oxygen delivery to the lungs. Devices include liquid oxygen systems, electrically driven oxygen concentrators, and cylinders of compressed gas.
• Surgery -- For severe or advanced emphysema, a surgeon may reduce lung size. In extreme conditions, they may recommend a lung transplant.

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