Emphysema (cont.)
IN THIS ARTICLE
- Emphysema Overview
- Emphysema Causes
- Emphysema Symptoms
- When to Seek Medical Care
- Exams and Tests
- Emphysema Treatment
- Medical Treatment
- Surgery
- Next Steps
- Follow-up
- Prevention
- Outlook
- Synonyms and Keywords
- Authors and Editors
- Pictures of Bronchitis - Slideshow
- Viewer Comments: Emphysema - Describe Your Experience
Outlook
Emphysema is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. It is a chronic, progressive disease that affects the quality of life at least as much as the length of life.
Similar to many chronic diseases, the prognosis is affected by too many variables to be discussed here. There is no cure, but there are effective methods of treatment, which can slow the progression of the disease and allow for a normal life.
In short, the diagnosis of emphysema is not a death sentence. Rather, it is a medical condition that should prompt you to take an active role in the management of your disease. Quitting smoking is the best first step. Regular visits to your doctor and taking medications as prescribed are also very important.
Next: Synonyms and Keywords »
Viewer Comments & Reviews
Emphysema - Describe Your Experience
Please describe your experience with emphysema.
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Emphysema »
The word emphysema is derived from Greek and means "to blow into," hence "air containing" or "air inflated."
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