Well also discuss common causes of emphysema and COPD, coping tips, treatment options, and more.
Actually, emphysema is one of the two main types ofchronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
The other is chronic bronchitis.
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In many ways, chronic bronchitis and emphysema are more similar than they are different.
Both are often, but not always, related to smoking.
They have many overlapping symptoms.
such as coughing and wheezing, and tend to progress (get worse) over time.
However, chronic bronchitis affects the airways in the lungs, while emphysema affects the air sacs.
Each one is progressively more severe than the last.
Research suggests that most people with COPD have both conditions to some degree.
Still, there are some demographic differences between the two types of COPD.
The condition is more common in women than in men.
Meanwhile, emphysema seems somewhat less common.
Approximately 1.6% of American adults have been diagnosed with emphysema.
The condition is more common among men than women.
Both chronic bronchitis and emphysema are more common in older adults, especially people over 65 years old.
Is One Worse?
Many people understandably wonder whether emphysema is associated with higher risks than other types of COPD.
However, nonsmokers can also develop emphysema.
However, thats not the case.
They may also prescribe medication to make it easier for you to quit.
There are also several free smoking cessation resources available in the United States.
It is one jot down of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
It shares many similar symptoms and potential health outcomes with chronic bronchitis, the other primary kind of COPD.
Many people with emphysema also havechronic bronchitis.
Like other kinds of COPD, emphysema is progressive, meaning it usually gets worse with time.
They can help you develop an action plan and prescribe medications and other forms of therapy as needed.
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