Related to Lung Disease & Respiratory Health
Emphysema Directory
Emphysema is a form of chronic (long-term) lung disease and is the main type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). People with emphysema have difficulty breathing due to a limited ability to blow air out. There are multiple causes of emphysema, but smoking is by far the most common. Emphysema has no cure, but quitting smoking may slow its progression. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about emphysema, what it looks like, how to treat it, and much more.
Medical Reference
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What Are the End Stages of Emphysema?
You've got emphysema. Now what? WebMD explains the different stages of this disease and what you can expect during each one.
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Emphysema, Chronic Bronchitis, and Colds
Catching colds when you have a chronic lung disease like COPD or emphysema can lead to serious respiratory infections. Learn more from WebMD about preventing and treating colds.
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What Is Emphysema, and What Causes It?
If you have emphysema, the linings of the tiny air sacs in your lungs become damaged beyond repair, keeping your airways from working as they should. Learn more about what causes this form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
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How Do Doctors Diagnose Emphysema?
You can’t tell whether you have emphysema just by looking at your symptoms. Your doctor will have to run a number of tests to know for sure. WedMD explains what those tests are and what they can tell your doctor about your lungs.
Features
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COPD: How to Quit Smoking
WebMD article on smoking cessation for people who have COPD.
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Living With COPD: About Treatments, Exercise, and Diet
Living with COPD presents 13 million Americans with new challenges, and opportunities for better health. Are you one? Then read on.
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Quit Smoking for Good
The most important thing anyone with COPD who smokes can do is quit smoking. The second most important thing is to be in a smoke-free environment. Whether you have COPD or are caring for someone with COPD, find out what the experts say about how to quit smoking and make it last.
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COPD: Ways to Avoid Weight Loss
If you have COPD, your calorie requirements may be higher than you think. A person with COPD can burn 10 times as many calories breathing as a healthy person. Here are 11 feel-better foods and beverages that are rich in calories and nutrients.