Emphysema is a long-term lung disease damaging alveoli and impairing oxygen exchange. Treatment options include oxygen therapy, medications, and surgery. Prevention strategies focus on quitting smoking and reducing lung irritants to mitigate risks of complications such as heart failure and lung collapse.

Understanding Emphysema: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Strategies

Emphysema is a persistent lung disease marked by damage to the alveoli—the tiny air sacs responsible for oxygen exchange. When these sacs deteriorate, it hampers oxygen transfer, leading to low oxygen levels in the bloodstream, known as hypoxemia. When standard therapies like bronchodilators and steroids fall short, Long Term Oxygen Therapy (LTOT) is used. Patients typically breathe oxygen-enriched air with 25-28% oxygen via nasal prongs for at least 15 hours daily to sustain adequate oxygen saturation.

The main goal of oxygen therapy is to keep blood oxygen levels between 88% and 94%. Too much oxygen can be dangerous and should only be administered under medical guidance.

Potential Risks

Chronically low oxygen levels cause the body to respond by increasing heart output and producing more red blood cells. However, as the disease progresses, these compensatory mechanisms may fail, leading to complications like cor pulmonale, where the right heart enlarges due to elevated lung pressure (pulmonary hypertension). Over time, this can cause right-sided heart failure, which may be fatal.

Another serious issue involves alveolar destruction, creating large air spaces called bullae that diminish lung capacity and restrict expansion. Surgical removal of bullae may be required, and in severe cases, a lung transplant might be considered. In extreme cases, alveolar rupture can cause pneumothorax, causing lung collapse and risking life. Since emphysema damage is irreversible, prevention is crucial. Quitting smoking, avoiding irritants, maintaining good nutrition, and exercising regularly can significantly lower the risk.