Diagnostic Techniques of Emphysema

Emphysema refers to a lung condition that leads to shortness of breath. In people with emphysema, the air sacs located in the lungs (specially the alveoli) are damaged. Over time, the inner walls of the air sacs weaken and rupture thereby creating larger air spaces instead of many smaller ones. This results in the reduction of the surface area of the lungs and thereby, transporting the amount of oxygen reaching the  bloodstream. When we exhale, the damaged alveoli does not work properly and previously inhaled air gets trapped, thus leaving no room for fresh, oxygen-rich air to enter. Majority of the people with emphysema also possess chronic bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis is mainly the inflammation of the tubes that help to carry air into the lungs (bronchial tubes), which results in a persistent cough. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are two major conditions that lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Smoking is the main cause of COPD. Proper treatment may slow down the progression of COPD, but it cannot reverse the damage.

Symptoms

A person may suffer from emphysema for many years without even noticing any signs or symptoms. The main symptoms of emphysema involve shortness of breath, which begins gradually. People start avoiding activities that cause them to be short of breath, so the symptoms do not become a problem until it starts interfering with daily activities. Emphysema generally causes shortness of breath even while a person is at rest.

Causes

The major causes of emphysema is a long-term exposure to airborne irritants such as:

• Tobacco smoke

• Marijuana smoke

• Air pollution

• Chemical fumes and dust

• Emphysema is resulted via an inherited deficiency of a protein which helps in the protection of the elastic structures in the lungs. It is also known as alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency emphysema.

Diagnosis of Emphysema

The diagnosis of emphysema can be made mainly on the basis of symptoms. Various tests are required to make the diagnosis. One simple test is done by tapping on the person’s chest and listening with a stethoscope for a hollow sound. This suggests that air is being trapped inside the lungs. Other tests may include:

• X-rays: X-rays are usually not used for detecting early stages of emphysema. Although, X-rays help to diagnose moderate or severe cases. Maybe, a plain chest X-ray or a CAT (computer-aided tomography) scan should be used. Once the test is completed, these readings can be compared to the X-rays of a healthy or normal lungs.

• Pulse oximetry: This test is also referred to as an oxygen saturation test. Pulse oximetry is generally used to measure the oxygen content of the blood. This is usually done by attaching the monitor to a person’s finger, forehead, or earlobe.

• Spirometry and pulmonary function tests (PFT): It is one of the most useful tests that helps in determining the airway blockage. A spirometry or PFT test also helps in calculating the lungs’ volume via measuring the airflow when a patient inhales and exhales. This test is done after taking a deep breath and then blowing it into a tube that is attached to a specialized machine. These tests are used to compare the normal results from people of similar gender, age, height, weight and background.

• Arterial blood gas: This test helps in measuring the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide present in the blood of an artery. It is a test which is often used when emphysema gets worse. It is very helpful in determining if a patient needs extra oxygen.

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): ECGs checks heart function and are used to control heart diseases that are a cause of shortness of breath.

Conclusion

The easiest way to prevent or reduce further problems is mainly to prevent respiratory infections one can follow few practices such as- practicing good methods of handwashing, brushing and flossing teeth daily, and use of an antibacterial mouth rinse after meals is also advised, breathing equipment must be kept clean. One must keep their houses clean and free of dust, everyone is advised to take flu shots every year. Here we come to an end of this topic. We hope that you were able to clear all your concepts regarding the diagnosis symptoms and causes of emphysema.