The American Lung Association defines emphysema as “one of the diseases that comprises COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Emphysema involves gradual damage of lung tissue. Specifically thinning and destruction of the alveoli or air sacs.” The Mayo Clinic explains that “You can have emphysema for many years without noticing any signs or symptoms. The main symptom of emphysema is shortness of breath, which usually begins gradually.”
According to the Emphysema Foundation, lifestyle changes can be effective in controlling the symptoms of COPD symptoms, including emphysema. Such lifestyle changes would include:
- Quit smoking
- Avoid Air pollutants
- Maintain a social life
- Keep a journal
- Consult a physician
To schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider at any of our convenient Primary Medical Care Center community clinics, you may visit our website at www.primarymed.com, or call (305)751-1500 for our Miami-Dade clinic, or (954)289-0000 for our Broward clinic.
Source: http://www.emphysemafundation.org/?id=197
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/emphysema/symptoms-causes/syc-2035555
https://www.lung.org/lung-health-and-diseases/lung-diseases/lung-diseases-lookup/emphysema/