Emphysema (COPD)

• What is emphysema also known as?

  Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• What happens to the airways and alveoli in emphysema?


  • Airways become inflamed and narrowed
  • Alveoli are permanently damaged
  • Breathing out becomes more difficult
• What is the prognosis for COPD?


  There is no cure, but early diagnosis and treatment can reduce severe lung damage.
• What tests are needed to diagnose emphysema?


  1. Chest X-ray
  2. CT Scan
  3. Pulmonary function testing
  4. Arterial blood gas (ABG)
  5. Electrocardiogram (ECG)
  6. Blood tests
• What is the purpose of a chest X-ray in diagnosing emphysema?


  To compare the individual's lungs with X-rays of healthy lungs.
• How does a CT scan differ from a chest X-ray in diagnosing emphysema?


  A CT scan creates a 3D image of the lungs, providing more detailed images than an X-ray.
• What does pulmonary function testing measure?


  It measures how well the lungs inhale and exhale air.
• What does arterial blood gas (ABG) testing measure?


  It measures the amount of O2 and CO2 in the blood from an artery.
• Why is an electrocardiogram (ECG) performed in the diagnosis of emphysema?


  To check heart function and rule out heart diseases as a cause for shortness of breath.
• What percentage of emphysema cases are caused by a protein deficiency?


  About 1% of cases.
• What are the common symptoms of emphysema?


  • Shortness of breath, especially when moving
  • Yellow phlegm
  • Persistent cough
  • Frequent chest infections
  • Wheezing
  • Symptoms worsen over time
• What is the main lifestyle choice that causes emphysema?

  Smoking
• What occupational exposures can lead to the development of COPD?


  Exposure to dust and chemicals, including grains, cadmium, and coal.
• How does passive smoking affect the risk of COPD?


  It increases the risk of developing COPD.
• What is alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency?


  A rare genetic tendency that can cause COPD in about 1% of people.
• What are the main treatments for emphysema?


  • Stopping smoking
  • Inhalers and tablets
  • Physiotherapy
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation
  • Ambulatory oxygen therapy
  • Long-term oxygen therapy
  • Nebuliser
  • Surgery
• Why is stopping smoking important for someone with COPD?


  It is the most important thing to reduce further damage to the lungs.
• What is the purpose of pulmonary rehabilitation?


  It is a specialized program of exercise and education to help manage COPD.
• What is the use of a nebuliser in emphysema treatment?


  It is used when airways are too constricted and inhalers are not working.
• What care needs are important for individuals with respiratory malfunctions?


  • Regular check-ups
  • Support for lack of energy and breathlessness
  • Installation of stair lifts
  • Possible use of a wheelchair
  • Oxygen cylinder for breathing assistance
  • Home help for daily living tasks
• What are the general lifestyle impacts of respiratory malfunctions?


  • Appropriate treatment helps maintain mobility and activity
  • Giving up smoking reduces lung damage
  • Balanced diet for healthy weight
  • Possible need to move to a one-storey house
  • Avoiding pollution and infections
  • Emotional and social impacts may lead to depression and anxiety