Emphysema is a lung disease characterized by expansion of pulmonary alveoli, causing respiratory problems. This excessive pressure of air in the lungs is usually caused by a partial obstruction of the bronchi. It is often associated with chronic bronchitis.
The alveoli are used to purify the blood by exchanging carbon dioxide for oxygen breathing. This exchange does not function normally with dilated alveoli.
The symptom of emphysema is shortness of breath on exertion.
The smoke produced by wood burning and smoking are causes of pulmonary emphysema.
Pulmonary emphysema can not be cured. It is treated with a training effort, bronchodilators if asthmatic reactions or steroids used to reduce inflammation. Sometimes surgery is effective. In some cases, a lung transplant becomes necessary.
16 avril 2010
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