Definition:
Emphysema is a disease of the lungs. A person with this disease cannot breath
easily. This due to the loss of elasticity and dilation of the lung
tissue. In most cases of emphysema breathing out is very difficult.
This allows stale air to remain trapped in the lungs, preventing
the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Symptoms:
The most common symptom of emphysema is breathlessness, followed by coughing
during exertion. Most people who are diagnosed with emphysema had
been long-term smokers. Symptoms may not occur until after the age
of 50.
Holistic Treatment Plan:
There is no known cure for this disease. But the proper nutritional
support can ease discomfort and possibly slow down the disease=s
progress.
References:
Hendler, S. The Doctor=s Vitamin and Mineral Encyclopedia, Simon
& Schuster, 1990
Packer, L. et al, AAlpha-Lipoic acid as a biological antioxidant,@
Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 1995; 19: 227-50
Disclaimer:
All information given here is for educational purposes only. For a proper diagnosis and
treatment plan you must consult your health care practitioner.
