Emphysema is directly related to smoking, and treatment requires smoking cessation combined with medication, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation. Emphysema is a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease characterized by alveolar wall destruction, leading to decreased gas exchange. Long-term smoking is the main cause of emphysema; harmful substances in tobacco damage the alveoli and airways, causing inflammation and fibrosis, ultimately leading to irreversible lung function impairment. The key to treating emphysema is smoking cessation, combined with medication, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation to alleviate symptoms and slow disease progression.
1. Quitting smoking is the primary measure for treating emphysema. Nicotine and tar in tobacco continuously damage lung tissue, and quitting smoking can significantly slow the rate of decline in lung function. Methods for quitting smoking include nicotine replacement therapy, medication-assisted cessation such as varenicline and bupropion, and psychological and behavioral interventions.
2. Drug therapy is an important means of relieving the symptoms of emphysema. Commonly used drugs include bronchodilators such as salmeterol and formoterol, inhaled corticosteroids such as budesonide, and expectorants such as ambroxol. These drugs can improve airway patency and reduce inflammatory response.
3. Oxygen therapy is suitable for patients with severe emphysema, especially those with blood oxygen saturation below 90%. Long-term home oxygen therapy can improve patients' quality of life and reduce the occurrence of complications. Oxygen therapy equipment includes portable oxygen cylinders and oxygen concentrators; the oxygen flow rate needs to be adjusted according to the doctor's advice.
4. Pulmonary rehabilitation training is an effective way to improve lung function. Training includes respiratory muscle exercises such as diaphragmatic breathing and pursed-lip breathing, aerobic exercises such as walking and cycling, and strength training. Pulmonary rehabilitation training can improve patients' exercise endurance and quality of life.
Treatment of emphysema requires comprehensive management, with smoking cessation as the core, and medication, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation training as important adjunctive methods. Patients should have regular follow-up visits to monitor changes in lung function and adjust the treatment plan promptly. Through scientific treatment and lifestyle interventions, patients with emphysema can effectively control their condition and improve their quality of life.