Chest And Lungs

Here are definitions of medical terms related to emphysema. Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT): A protein produced in the liver that blocks the destructive effects of certain enzymes. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AAT deficiency): A deficiency of a protein produced in the liver that blocks the destructive effects of certain enzymes. This inherited condition is associated with emphysema and liver […]

Here are some reliable sources that can provide more information on emphysema. Emphysema Foundation for Our Right to Survive (EFFORTS)  http://www.emphysema.net/ EFFORTS is a non-profit organization, formed, funded and operated by patients with the disease. Their mission is to promote deeper research for more effective treatment and, hopefully, a cure for emphysema and related lung

Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for chronic bronchitis. Most treatment is focused on making the symptoms less severe and trying to prevent further damage. Treatment involves: Lifestyle changes Medication Self-care and alternative treatments Oxygen Lifestyle Changes The first and probably the most important treatment is to stop smoking. Quitting smoking is a two-step process that

The easiest and most effective way to prevent bronchitis is to never smoke. If you do, quitting smoking at or, preferably, before the early signs of trouble can help keep damage to a minimum. For those who work in certain environments, use of respiratory protection devices such as respirators or filter masks can help prevent

If you have bronchitis, there are steps you can take to help yourself: Smoking cessation Protecting against respiratory infections Breathing exercises Home environment Other tips Smoking Cessation Quitting smoking is the first and most essential step in treating chronic bronchitis. Once you stop smoking, your lung function may stabilize and even improve slightly, eventually declining

Because chronic bronchitis is a long-term disease, it is very important to see a doctor regularly. You should call your doctor: Whenever you have a persistent cough, with or without phlegm, especially if you are a smoker If you have a fever, since this can be a sign of infection If you have shortness of

Here are some frequently asked questions related to bronchitis. Q: What other diseases resemble chronic bronchitis? A: There usually are no symptoms of lung cancer until the disease is well established. Frequent bouts of pneumonia or lung infection in a seemingly healthy adult that does not clear up normally may be the first sign of lung

Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to bronchitis. Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes (or bronchi), which are the air passages that extend from the windpipe into the lungs. No matter what their occupation or lifestyle, people who smoke cigarettes are most likely to develop chronic bronchitis. The

Here are definitions of medical terms related to bronchitis. Alveoli: Tiny sac-like airspaces in the lungs where carbon dioxide from the body is exchanged for oxygen from outside the body. Bronchial tubes, bronchi: Larger air passages in the lung, usually closer to the throat Bronchioles: Smaller air passages in the lung Bronchoconstriction: Tightening of the muscles of the surrounding

Here are some reliable sources that can provide more information on bronchitis. American Lung Association  Phone: (800) 586-4872 http://www.lungusa.org National Heart, Lung & Blood Institute Information Center  Phone: (301) 251-1222 http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/index.htm The American Academy of Family Physicians  http://familydoctor.org/ The professional association for the family practice doctors in the U.S. They have a good selection of