Emphysema, a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can make breathing a daily challenge. Generally caused by smoking or long-term exposure to industrial pollution and dust, emphysema literally takes the breath away of its victims. As per a study conducted by researchers from the Global Health Society of Edinburgh University, almost 7% of Indians aged 30 years and above suffer from emphysema as per data collected in 2021.
Life can seem exceptionally challenging if breathing, an activity that we don't even consciously regulate, becomes obstructed. Although emphysema can not be reversed, there are helpful steps that can be taken to improve your quality of life and ease emphysema symptoms.
Consult Your Doctor
The first step in managing emphysema is to work closely with your healthcare provider. They can assess your condition, provide personalised guidance, and prescribe appropriate medications to help manage your symptoms.
Quit Smoking
If you smoke, quitting is the most crucial step in managing emphysema. Smoking damages your lungs and worsens emphysema symptoms. There are a lot of support groups out there that can help you quit smoking or at least increase your willingness to quit cigarettes.
Also Read: COPD Day 2021: Know All About Lung Attack And Tips To Manage This Condition
Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Pulmonary rehabilitation programmes offer tailored exercise routines and education to help improve lung function, enhance fitness, and reduce shortness of breath. Make sure that when you avail of these programmes, you choose those that are led by credible and certified professionals.
Medication Management
Emphysema is one disease you do not want to take lightly. Breathing literally keeps every part of your body from malfunctioning, as it enables the flow of oxygen throughout your body. So follow your medication regime thoroughly. Under no circumstances should you skip your prescribed medicines.
Oxygen Therapy
In severe cases, supplemental oxygen therapy can provide relief by increasing the oxygen levels in your blood. Portable oxygen containers are easily available. Although they are quite an investment, so might not be feasible for everyone, however, if you can afford them, they can work wonders in alleviating your symptoms.
Vaccinations
Emphysema makes you more susceptible to respiratory infections which can further damage your lung capacity. Ensure you have completed all courses of recommended vaccinations, including the flu and pneumonia vaccines, to reduce your risk of complications.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
A well-balanced diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce the strain on your respiratory system. Opt for nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Be sure to include apples, pumpkin, turmeric, and peppers into your diet, which have proven benefits of boosting your lung health.
Stay Hydrated
Our respiratory system is coated with a thin layer of mucous which helps to catch dust and other harmful pathogens from attacking your body. But certain imbalances can cause an overproduction of mucous and obstruct our breathing tubes. Drinking enough water keeps the mucus layer thin and easy to clear from your airways. This can help reduce coughing and shortness of breath.
Also Read: Hydration: Tips To Replenish Fluids In Your Body Apart From Drinking Water
Breathing Techniques
Practising breathing exercises, such as pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing, can help improve lung function and manage breathlessness. You can also look towards yoga to follow breathing practices.
Manage Stress
Stress can exacerbate emphysema symptoms, as it makes your heart pump faster and puts your body in desperate need of increased oxygen, making you breathe rapidly. Incorporate relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises into your daily routine to reduce stress levels. Also, try to stay away from activities that induce undue stress in your mind.
There is no sugarcoating it, living with emphysema is challenging and painful. But if you take proactive steps and work closely with your healthcare provider, you can significantly improve your quality of life. Quit smoking, adhere to prescribed treatments, and adopt a healthy lifestyle to effectively manage your emphysema symptoms. Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Seek support from healthcare professionals, support groups, and loved ones to help you breathe easier and enjoy a fulfilling life despite emphysema.
