Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) – Emphysema

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Understanding Emphysema (COPD)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition that includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, both of which obstruct airflow in the lungs. Emphysema involves the gradual destruction of the air sacs (alveoli), leading to difficulty in breathing and reduced oxygen exchange.

This disease is not curable, but with the right treatment and lifestyle changes, symptoms can be managed effectively, helping patients maintain a good quality of life.

Causes and Risk Factors

Primary Causes of Emphysema

Smoking: The leading cause of COPD, responsible for up to 90% of cases.
Long-term exposure to pollutants: Including air pollution, chemical fumes, and dust.
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency: A rare genetic disorder that can lead to early onset of emphysema.

Risk Groups

Individuals over age 40
Long-term smokers (including secondhand smoke exposure)
People with chronic respiratory infections
Workers exposed to industrial dusts or chemical vapors

Common Symptoms

Persistent shortness of breath (especially during activity)
Chronic cough with or without mucus
Wheezing
Fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance
Frequent respiratory infections
Chest tightness

If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if you have a smoking history, consult a physician for early screening.

Stages of Emphysema

COPD is categorized into four stages:

Mild (Stage I): Minor airflow limitation, chronic cough.
Moderate (Stage II): Increased symptoms, shortness of breath during activity.
Severe (Stage III): Greater breathing difficulty, exacerbations more frequent.
Very Severe (Stage IV): Dangerously limited airflow, high risk of complications and respiratory failure.

Diagnosis at Vibhavadi Hospital

At Vibhavadi Hospital, we provide advanced and accurate diagnostic tools to identify COPD and emphysema in their early stages.

Diagnostic Services

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs)

Measures how much air you can inhale and exhale, and how efficiently your lungs transfer oxygen.

Chest X-rays & CT Scans

Helps visualize lung damage, especially in the alveoli.

Arterial Blood Gas Test

Evaluates how well your lungs are delivering oxygen and removing carbon dioxide.

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Blood Test

For identifying the genetic form of emphysema.

Treatment Options at Vibhavadi Hospital

Medication-Based Management

Bronchodilators: Relax the muscles around airways to ease breathing.
Inhaled corticosteroids: Reduce airway inflammation.
Phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors: Reduce inflammation and relax airways.
Antibiotics: Used if infections are present.

Non-Pharmacologic Therapies

Oxygen therapy: For patients with low blood oxygen levels.
Pulmonary rehabilitation: A structured program combining exercise, education, and support.

Surgical Interventions

Lung volume reduction surgery: Removes damaged lung tissue to improve breathing efficiency.
Lung transplant: For end-stage cases where other treatments are not effective.

Lifestyle and Preventive Measures

Quitting smoking is the most effective way to slow disease progression.
Get vaccinated against influenza and pneumonia.
Avoid exposure to lung irritants like dust, fumes, and secondhand smoke.
Follow a doctor-recommended exercise program.
Maintain a healthy diet to prevent muscle loss and fatigue.

Our Respiratory Care Team

At Vibhavadi Hospital, your care is delivered by a multidisciplinary team, including:

Pulmonologists: Specialists in lung diseases.
Respiratory Therapists: Help with breathing exercises and equipment use.
Nutritionists: Ensure you maintain a healthy diet to support breathing.
Rehabilitation Specialists: Guide physical therapy and pulmonary rehab programs.

Insurance and Costs

We accept a wide range of insurance providers and offer transparent billing. Before starting treatment, you will receive a cost estimate and coverage breakdown. Patients can also access: