Emphysema

Emphysema is a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease characterized by irreversible expansion of the distal airways due to destruction of the alveoli and loss of elastic traction of the lung tissue.

With emphysema, the walls of the alveoli are destroyed, causing them to merge, forming larger air cavities. This leads to a decrease in the total area of ​​gas exchange and impaired pulmonary ventilation.

The main symptoms of emphysema: shortness of breath, cough with sputum, feeling of lack of air. The disease often develops against the background of chronic bronchitis and smoking.

Diagnosis of emphysema includes chest x-ray, computed tomography, and respiratory function testing.

Treatment is aimed at eliminating bronchial obstruction, inflammation, infection, and improving the drainage function of the bronchi. Bronchodilators, glucocorticoids, antibiotics, and mucolytics are used. It is important to quit smoking. In severe forms, oxygen therapy and surgical treatment may be required.

Emphysema is an irreversible expansion or deformation of the alveoli with their retraction, diffuse pneumosclerosis, and a characteristic disorder of the structure of the walls of the acinus and respiratory bronchioles. It is necessary to distinguish between the terminologically most important conditions - emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Emphysema can develop progressively, but its main manifestations can be established already in